Dynamics of Strength Gain of an Artificial Stone Based on a Cement Binder

The article discusses the existing theories of physical and chemical processes occurring in artificial stone based on a cement binder, affecting the dynamics of strength gain. A mathematical model of the continuously increasing strength of the cement stone according to the logarithmic law has been investigated. The authors questioned the adequacy of the application of such theories to exclude the factor of hardening time from experiments aimed at identifying the effect of such measures as the use of surfactants, mineral additives, changes in the water-cement ratio, etc., on the strength gain. The authors proposed to study the influence of such factors on the dynamics of changes in the strength of cement stone as a more efficient tool. The main arguments of the theory of abrupt strength gain and destruction of cement systems are presented. The authors planned an experiment to plot the dynamics of the strength gain of an artificial stone based on a cement binder to assess the relevance of the problem. During the experiment, two batches of specimens were tested, six specimens in each at 3-, 7-, 14-, 28-, 56-and 84-day age, respectively. The values obtained during the experiment showed significant differences at an early age of hardening. The theoretical curves of variation of strength in time were obtained based on the experimental data, within the framework of the existing theory of the strength gain of an artificial stone based on a cement binder. The simulation results were compared with the experimental results and with each other. The arguments were put forward for and against existing theories based on the results of the analysis of experimental studies and theoretical calculations.