RESEARCH ON THE HYDRATION OF MAGNESIA-PHOSPHATE CEMENT

Magnesia-Phosphate Cement (MFC) is a new structural material that enables extremely high strength development that is not attainable through commonly used hydraulic materials. MFC can develop a working strength within an hour of the initiation of hydration. Unlike ordinary Portland cements, MFC hardens through the formation of crystal mixtures produced by the reaction of magnesia, phosphate and water systems. MFC can be mixed and placed like ordinary portland cement concrete. Since MFC has very good adhesion to concrete, a thermal coefficient of expansion almost equal to that of concrete, and no drying shrinkage without curing, it is ideal for use as a material for the emergency repair of concrete structures. Physical, chemical and crystographycal studies of MFC were conducted to gain an insight into its ultra-rapid strength development mechanisms.