Effect of the titanium-dioxide addition on the structural, dielectric, and mechanical properties of different cement-based mortars with corundum aggregate

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to look into the role of titanium dioxide in the production of corundum-based mortars, with a focus on finding the optimal mortar composition for achieving improved mechanical and dielectric performances. Changes in the mix design (different binders, different additive dosages), as well as their effects on the hydration pathway, chemical bonds, phase modifications, and microstructure, were examined. These findings were then correlated to the designed mortars' mechanical strengths and dielectric properties. Experimental mortars were produced with binders made from ordinary Portland cement, high alumina cement, and their mixtures, and corundum as aggregate. Titanium dioxide was employed as an additive (3 and 5 wt%). Nine different mortars were submitted for comprehensive mineralogical and microstructural characterization upon curing and solidification. The compressive and flexural strengths were monitored throughout the 28-day period. The dielectric constant (εr), dielectric loss tangent (tan δ), and electrical resistivity (ρ) were measured over a frequency range of 100 Hz to 1 MHz. XRD analysis highlighted the appearance of mayenite as a dielectric-prone phase in the samples doped with titanium dioxide. Differential thermal analysis and FTIR spectroscopy identified a higher amount of extra-low crystalline phase in OPC and HAC mortars with TiO2 addition, which accelerated hydration mechanisms, created a surplus of hydration products and made a more compact cement matrix. TiO2 added in 3 wt% amount led to higher mechanical strengths in OPC-based mortars, while it improved the dielectric properties of HAC mortars.