Prerequisites to the introduction of the effect of microwave radiation on the properties of cement-based solutions and concrete

Purpose. The impact of conditions and parameters of microwave radiation on the change in the physical and mechanicalproperties of cement materials has been studied, particularly on the stability of their strength characteristics. The methods. The following methods were used: analysis of modern scientific concepts of microwave radiation application in industrial purposes, considering the safety of its use; study of the impact of microwave heating on the kinetics of product properties; determination of the compressive strength limit of mortars and concretes; comparative analysis. The samples were cement-sand cubes with dimensions of 5×5×5 cm, produced according to standards, and cured until they achieved their design strength. When applying UHF radiation to the samples, it was considered that its influence at early stages could disrupt the hydration processes. Findings. The results of the study on the impact of microwave radiation on the change in physical and mechanical properties of building mortars and concretes based on cement are presented. The parameters of microwave radiation that influence the physical and mechanical properties of cement-sand samples have been identified. The application of microwave radiation during the removal of water from the internal layers of the mortar mixture leads to an increase in the strength of cement mortars and concretes. The energy consumption when using UHF technologies is lower compared to thermal treatment. The originality. Dependencies between the power and duration of UHF radiation and the strength characteristics of the samples have been established. Quantitative parameters of the radiation affecting the process of their destruction have been determined. Practical implementation. The research conducted will expand the scientific basis for justifying the use of microwave radiation to influence the properties of cement mortars and concretes. The impact of UHF radiation can accelerate the hardening process of cement mixtures. This can be useful in conditions where rapid hardening of the material is required, such as in emergency construction work. However, the acceleration of the reaction may lead to a decrease in the quality of the final product if all parameters are not carefully controlled.