Abstract

The evolution of microstructure in cementitious materials during their transition from fluid to solid state plays a critical role in determining their ultimate mechanical strength and overall performance. This hydration stage primarily involves a dynamic densification process occurring within the colloidal network. However, the field of cement-based materials currently lacks a comprehensive theoretical framework and associated parameters capable of effectively characterizing the specific structural regions within this network. In this study, we propose an Improved Particle Linkage (IPL) theory for describing the strength, types, and quantities of particle linkages within colloidal network. The IPL theory classifies the internal network structure into three distinct regions, namely the αweak, βstrong and γinherent. The γinherent and βstrong region predominantly influence the strength of the colloidal network at the initial and later hydration stages, respectively, whereas the αweak region contributes steadily to the network strength across all hydration stages. Furthermore, the progressive intensification of the βstrong region during hydration is identified as the principal driving factor for microstructural evolution, leading to a critical transition point in fresh properties. Additionally, a novel parameter, termed the network hydration index (ξ), to quantitatively characterize the overall degree of hydration within the colloidal network is establishment.

Department(s)

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering

Publication Status

Full Text Access

Keywords and Phrases

Colloidal network structure; Microstructure evolution; Particle linkage; Rheology; Structural build-up

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0008-8846

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2026 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Mar 2026

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