In situ monitoring of the early-stage microstructural development of MgO-hydromagnesite blend using synchrotron nanotomography

There is great potential for developing carbon-reactive cement using the massive magnesium resources, but we understand little about their hydration and carbonation kinetics to control their macro-level properties. The main objective of this project is to create high-resolution 3D models of early-stage microstructure development (including the sequence of MgO dissolution, precipitation, and nucleation, as well as the changes in pore structures) of MgO-hydromagnesite blend. We will perform a correlative study complementing the NanoCT data with rheology, XRD, and NMR characterization resulting in a descriptive model for the reaction kinetics.