Temperature dependence of thermal diffusivity of OPC and CAC cement paste

Abstract

Thermal diffusivity of concrete is an important factor that influences the fire resistance of concrete structures. The temperature dependence of thermal diffusivities of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and calcium aluminate cement (CAC) paste are studied in this paper. First, the mineral compositions of OPC and CAC paste are investigated by X-ray diffraction analysis. Second, the dehydration process and the microstructure of OPC and CAC paste are characterised by thermogravimetric analysis and environmental scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Finally, the thermal diffusivities of OPC and CAC paste at high temperature are measured using the laser flash method.