Title: A Review of Magnesium Oxide in Concrete

Author(s): Chongjiang Du

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 27

Issue: 12

Appears on pages(s): 45-50

Keywords: dam construction; magnesium oxide; mass concrete; shrinkage-compensating concrete

DOI:

Date: 12/1/2005

Abstract:
Normally, magnesium oxide (MgO) is considered to be an undesirable constituent in cement. However, as Chinese dam engineers accidentally discovered, it can help minimize cracking in mass concrete if it’s processed under the correct conditions and used in the correct proportions. The author reviews its history and provides guidelines for its use based on experience with approximately 30 dams in China over the past three decades.