11 Sep 2025

Influence and Mechanisms of Mineral Chemistry and Sizing Effects on Cementitious and Pozzolanic Reactions

Abstract: This study investigated whether materials traditionally considered inert could become reactive with increased fineness. Researchers used multiple techniques to produce materials in a variety of fineness levels. The final products were then analyzed for pozzolanic reactivity in accordance with ASTM 1897 and for their influence on portland cement hydration in accordance with ASTM C1702. Results indicated that pozzolanic reactivity was not produced by successive grinding for either chemistry, at least within the limits of the techniques used. Both chemistries were shown to influence the rate of portland cement hydration when ground finer than cement. This phenomenon is known as the filler effect, and it became more significant with increased fineness.