Effects of Limestone Powder on Chloride Concentration of Cement Paste

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Title: Effects of Limestone Powder on Chloride Concentration of Cement Paste

Author(s): X. Wang, W. Deng, Q. Zhang, X. Jia, R. Chen, M. Wang, R. Chen, L. Weng, and D. Wang

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume: 123

Issue: 2

Appears on pages(s): 181-192

Keywords: carboaluminate; chloride concentration; Friedel’s salt; limestone powder (LP); supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs); synergistic effect

DOI: 10.14359/51749271

Date: 3/1/2026

Abstract:
The concentration of chloride ions involves both chemical binding and physical adsorption. This study investigated how limestone powder and supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) synergistically affect chloride concentration in cement paste, using analyses of corrosion products, pore structure, and the chloride concentration coefficient. Cement pastes with 0 to 50% limestone powder and fly ash or slag were tested. Results showed that the synergy between limestone powder and fly ash or slag promoted carboaluminate formation, which completely converted to Friedel’s salt in chloride environments. This enhanced chemical binding and increased physical adsorption of chloride ions, while reducing porosity and the most probable pore diameter. When limestone powder was 5 to 25% with fly ash less than 10%, or both limestone powder and slag were 20 to 30%, the chloride concentration coefficient reached its peak. Thus, proper limestone powder content improves chloride resistance by enhancing both chemical and physical chloride binding.

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