Surface Properties of Eggshell Powder and Its Influence on Cement Hydration

Abstract

Using eggshell powder (EP) to replace partial cement in cement-based materials can abate pollution caused by eggshell discard and cement production. In this paper, the surface property of EP and its influence on cement hydration were studied. Quartz powder (QP) and limestone powder (LP) were used as references. First, the chemical composition of EP was characterized. Then, the surface charge properties of these materials were analyzed using zeta potential measurement. The interactions between EP surface and Ca2+ were discussed based on the zeta potential test. Afterward, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was applied to observe the morphology of hydrates on the surfaces of these materials. The results indicated that, although the compositions of EP and LP are similar, the surface charge properties are significantly different. This is likely due to the existence of organic matter on the surface of EP and the difference in the atomic structure. As shown from the zeta potential test, EP exhibits similar interaction with Ca2+ as QP. The interactions between EP surface and Ca2+ are much weaker than that between LP and Ca2+. These weak interactions lead to the growth of C–S–H on the surface of EP particles less than that of LP particles. The chemical reactivity of EP can be improved by using heat treatment, electrical oven, etc. This study will provide theoretical support for the better use of EP in cement-based materials.

The influence of eggshell powder and limestone on the rheological properties of cement pastes

“…Fly ash, from hard coal combustion and combined with eggshell powder, was also used as an additive to cement (16). According to He et al (6), the optimal amount of eggshell powder in the cement is 13%, by weight.…”

“…Jak wynika z badań składu fazowego mączki ze skorupek jaj, ich głównym składnikiem, jest kalcyt. Z tego względu pojawiło się wiele prac, dotyczących wykorzystania skorupek z jaj, jako dodatku do cementu, analogicznym do mączki z wapienia (4)(5)(6). Badano także wykorzystanie skorupek jaj kurzych, do otrzymywania wapna prażonego (7).…”

“…Stosowano także popiół lotny ze spalania węgla kamiennego, w połączeniu z mączką ze skorupek z jaj, jako dodatku do cementu (12). Według He et al (6), odpowiedni dodatek mączki ze skorupek z jaj kurzych do cementu, wynosi 13%.…”

“…In the phase composition of the eggshell powder, calcite is the main ingredient. Therefore, numerous articles have been published on the application of eggshells, as an additive to cement, analogous to the use of limestone powder (4)(5)(6). The use of eggshells, to obtain burned lime, was also tested (7).…”