The relation between the chemical composition of calcium–silicate–hydrate (C–S–H) phases and its influence on the compressive strength of cementitious materials is investigated by a new approach where prisms of C–S–H phases have been synthesized directly by the reaction of calcium hydroxide, amorphous SiO₂ and water. The synthesized samples employ molar Ca/Si ratios of 0.83, 1.0, 1.25 and 1.50, and the compressive strengths and age-depending changes of the pastes have been followed for up to three months of hydration, after which the microstructures were characterized. The model pastes feature most characteristics of hydrated cements, including zones of different density but similar chemical composition. The experimental data demonstrates that the compressive strengths of the C–S–H pastes increase for decreasing Ca/Si ratio for all synthesized samples and testing ages. The molar volumes of the C–S–H phases decrease with decreasing Ca/Si ratio, which along with the related higher surface areas may partly explain the differences in strength development.

The RILEM technical committee 282-CCL: Calcined Clays as Supplementary Cementitious Materials, investigates all the aspects related to calcined clays, from clay exploration and characterization to calcination process, hydration reactions and concrete properties. This white paper focuses on the hydration mechanisms of calcined clay-blended Portland cements, covering both 1:1 and 2:1 calcined clays. The pozzolanic reaction of calcined clay is detailed, and the main reaction products are described. The differences observed depending on the clay type are also discussed, as well as the potential influence of the secondary phases present in calcined clay. The factors controlling and limiting the reaction of calcined clay are investigated, evidencing the role of porosity saturation and refinement of the microstructure. The complete characterisation of the hydration of calcined clay cements is made possible by the determination of the reaction degree of calcined clay. Several methods are compared to estimate the extent of calcined clay reaction. The influence of clinker and limestone mineralogy are also discussed. Finally, guidelines for optimising the mixture design of calcined clay blended cements are provided, with special attention to sulphate adjustment and clinker factor.