Refinements to colloid model of C-S-H in cement: CM-II

This paper describes a second generation model for the nanostructure of C-S-H based on the interpretation of water sorption isotherms. The cornerstone of the model is a description of the globules (used here to mean small brick like particles), which consist of solid C-S-H and internal water, and the distribution of water in the small pores between them. Microstructural changes that occur during drying and account for both reversible and irreversible shrinkage are described. Since globules are particles, the properties of C-S-H gel are best understood through application of the emerging granular mechanics. This new model should help to establish quantitative relationships between the nanostructure and bulk properties.