A Study on the Influence of Gypsum and Ca(OH)2 on the Mechanical Properties and Hydration Behavior of Multi-Component Solid Waste-Based Cementitious Materials

This study investigates the influence of gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) on the hydration behavior and mechanical properties of multi-component solid waste-based cementitious materials. The evolution of hydration products was examined by evaluating compressive strength variations at different dosages and employing advanced analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric-differential thermogravimetric analysis (TG-DTG), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The findings reveal that gypsum addition facilitates the formation of ettringite (AFt), while Ca(OH)₂ enhances system alkalinity, promoting the precipitation and solidification of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel. A balanced incorporation of gypsum and Ca(OH)₂ significantly improves the early compressive strength and stabilizes hydration products. This study provides theoretical guidance for the effective utilization of solid waste resources and the optimized design of cementitious materials.