From light and drawings to electrons ans X-Rays: a primer of Portland cement clinker microscopy
Résumé
From the early microscopy at the end of the 19th century to cutting edge technology present in up-to-date microscopes, much has been done in both characterization and manufacture of clinker. But whatever the device used, we do still observe the same phases, as they were described more than a hundred years ago. Comparing optical data with more advanced techniques such as SEM, confocal laser scanning microscopy or X-Ray computed tomography is an interesting way to see clinker by different means. Finally, let’s not forget that clinker, ground and mixed with various components, will form cement, which, mixed with water, sand and aggregates, will harden into concrete - but, still under the microscope, that is another story.