What makes cements bind?—A proposal for a universal factor

Abstract

The cement industry needs radical solutions to reduce its carbon emissions. Here, we look at the fundamental question about the cohesion of cement, and give our perspectives on an overlooked factor: the amorphicity of cement reaction products. We discuss how the amorphicity can enable a scientifically-guided strategy to design and realize novel cements. Through this work, we invite the research community and cement scientists to unveil common principle(s) behind the cohesion of not only conventional Portland cement but also other emerging low-carbon cements. By adding this factor to the design framework for cement, we may radically enhance the progress of decarbonizing the industry while using less but achieving more in producing cements and concretes.