Abstract
Fluid transport in cementitious matrices and materials is fundamental for many engineering and environmental applications. However, observing and measuring transport processes inside opaque porous solids, such as cement, is technically challenging. We tested the feasibility of using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) for in-situ tracking of fluid being spontaneously imbibed into cementitious matrices. We found that the 124I radiotracer enables tracking of the 3D spatiotemporal distribution of the fluids moving through the solid phase. Our measurements show a similar transport rate for Ordinary Portland (CEM І) and slag (CEM ІІІ/B) cement pastes. For both cement types, we found that the fluid penetration depth is proportional to t0.25. Such a relationship indicates anomalous transport and agrees with standard imbibition/sorptivity experiments. This result confirms that the method offers a reliable technique to explore transport phenomena in cementitious materials.
Original language | American English |
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Article number | 107657 |
Journal | Cement and Concrete Research |
Volume | 185 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Nov 2024 |
Keywords
- Fluid transport
- Imbibition
- Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
- Sorptivity
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Building and Construction
- General Materials Science