Differential acid neutralisation analysis

The acid neutralisation behaviour of cement may form the basis of a quantitative analytical technique. In this work a method of analysing acid neutralisation data, termed "differential acid neutralisation analysis," that transforms the data into a series of peaks at different pH values is presented. This analytical technique may be used to obtain information on the quantity, type, and condition of the phases in materials like concrete that resist acidification at particular pH levels and may also quantify the inhibitive properties arising from a resistance to a fall in pH. Closely spaced peaks may be readily identified allowing the quantity of acid corresponding to a particular component to be accurately determined. However, further work is needed to improve the collection of the data, identify the phases corresponding to particular peaks, and assess the application of the technique to materials other than concrete. This may be assisted by methods of accelerating the achievement of the solid-solution equilibrium and by the addition of standards to the material tested. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.