use of Microscopy for Identify the Alk Sulphate in clinker?

Dear Expert

Can we use microscopy count to identify the % of alk Sulphate in clinker and how much this accurate, 

Can we also Identify by microscopy how much Alk Sulphate% (in clinker) are soluble during hydration process and what % are non reactive.?

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re use of Microscopy for Identify the Alk Sulphate in clinker?

Hello Raju,

Yes, alkali sulphate can be identified and quantitatively estimated by clinker microscopy. Alkali sulphates appear as black, irregular structures... most often occurring within pores.

Since crystal counting is a statistical method, the accuracy is related to the total area of the sample that is scanned and counted. However reasonable accuracy can be obtained by an experienced microscopist using modern microscopy techniques.

Estimation of alkali sulphates by microscopy invariably gives results that are lower than that calculated from XRF chemical analysis, because not all of the alkali and sulphur is present as alkali sulphates. Both may be present in solid solution within the crystal structure of the clinker minerals and so cannot be seen under the microscope.

Regard,

Ted.

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re use of Microscopy for Identify the Alk Sulphate in clinker?

thanks ted

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re use of Microscopy for Identify the Alk Sulphate in clinker?

Yes, that should be possible under sufficient resolution. If the alkali is present as sulphate then it will be soluble.

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