The microstructure of cement paste and concrete - a visual primer

This paper represents an attempt to provide an introduction to the microstructure of cement paste and concrete as seen in backscatter-mode scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Illustrations are provided of the 'internal architecture' underlying the microstructure of hardened cement paste and paste in concrete, at the size scales accessible to this instrument. Concrete is a uniquely complex engineering material. The aim of this paper is to provide researchers and practitioners who deal with it an acquaintance with its internal structure. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.