In situ chemical modification of C–S–H induced by CO2 laser irradiation

The final publication is available at Springer via http://dx.doi.org/10.1617/s11527-018-1150-yFire-induced compositional changes lead to strength loss and even failure in cement and concrete. Calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) gel, the main product of cement hydration, dehydrates at 25–200 °C, while temperatures of 850–900 °C alter its structure. A Raman spectroscopic study of the amorphous and crystalline phases forming after CO2 laser radiation of cement mortar showed that C–S–H dehydration yielded tricalcium silicate at higher, and dicalcium silicate at lower, temperatures. Post-radiation variations were identified in the position of the band generated by Si–O bond stretching vibrations.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author's final draft