Potential additives for magnesia-based concrete with enhanced performance and propensity for CO2 sequestration

This study focuses on the development of carbonated reactive magnesia cement (RMC) concrete formulations involving hydromagnesite (H), magnesite (M) and hydration agent (HA). Partial replacement RMC by H M stimulated formation hydrate carbonate phases. Use increased rate degree hydration, resulting in a bird nest-like structure containing poorly-crystalline brucite. The higher propensity this phase for carbonation utilisation as binder facilitated its conversion into strength-providing HMCs. Synergistic combination HA led to significant strength gain via content reduced w/b ratio. Presence provided micro-aggregates that enhanced large crystals with improved morphologies, microstructure densification 113 % increase. Furthermore, partial enabled reduction natural resources, CO2 emissions energy consumption associated production.