Performance of preserved alpha prime belite phase within belite–ye’elimite–ferrite clinker

Belite–ye’elimite–ferrite (BYF) cement has garnered significant interest as an alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) due to its lower limestone content, early-age strength development and improved durability. However, the main challenge to the commercial production of BYF cement is the requirement for large quantities of costly aluminous raw materials. The introduction of alpha prime belite (α′ C 2 S) to BYF clinker would minimize production costs while maintaining mechanical properties. Herein, α′ C 2 S containing BYF clinkers were synthesized and analysed to determine their properties and hydration characteristics. The clinker samples were synthesized using a previously reported clinkering technique wherein a sulfur-containing atmosphere was used, with a raw mix design including additions of a combination of boron, potassium and sodium-containing doping agents. Preliminary data showed adequate amounts of α′ C 2 S were preserved, reaching more than 40 wt% of total clinker composition. Moreover, the heat release curves revealed enhanced hydration kinetics for the modified clinkers compared to the unmodified ones. While there was a noticeable improvement in ettringite precipitation upon hydration, the precipitation of strätlingite remained the same after doping. The experimental findings showed high potential for the existence of low-ye’elimite BYF clinker formulations as part of the wider portfolio of OPC clinker alternatives.