STA PT 1600 – Cement sample – STA
Cement – Thermal decomposition – humidity – residual mass
Cement stands as one of the most extensively used materials in the construction of buildings. It comprises a blend of minerals, including silicates, carbonates, and water. The precise composition, moisture level, and organic content play a pivotal role in influencing the curing time and the properties of the final cement product. Consequently, it is imperative to conduct analyses of both the raw materials and dry cement.

In the measurement procedure described, a Thermogravimetric-Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TG-DSC) method was employed, commonly referred to as STA (Simultaneous Thermal Analysis). The primary constituents of cement encompass tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, and tricalcium aluminates.
Upon mixing the raw cement with water, a gradual formation of different hydrates ensues. When subjected to STA, the absorbed water initially evaporates during thermal decomposition. Subsequently, the hydrates of calcium silicate undergo decomposition, with the hydroxides of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum following suit at approximately 570°C.
These transformations are evident as distinct mass loss steps (as indicated by the red curve) accompanied by parallel endothermic effects on the DSC signal (illustrated by the blue curve). Consequentially, carbon dioxide is liberated from the carbonates, resulting in a substantial mass loss step occurring around 800°C.
Related instruments

STA PT 1600 (TG-DSC)
- (TGA) Thermogravimety and (DSC) Differential Scanning Calorimetry
- True top loading TG-DSC heat flux sensors
- Numerous user excheangable TG, TG-DSC and TG-DTA sensors for any kind of application
- Modular design: sample robot, turntable for up to two furnaces, vacuum tight design, different gas dosing systems, high pressure (up to 5 bar) option, vapor dosing system etc.
- Temperature range: -150 up to 1600/1750/2000/2400°C