Properties of well cement following carbonated brine exposure under HTHP conditions: a comparative study of alkali-activated and class G cements

M. H. Samarakoon, P. G. Ranjith, W. A.M. Wanniarachchi

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

18 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Carbonation of cement under high temperature and high pressure (HTHP) subsurface conditions is a significant concern with typical underground wells. This study evaluates the carbonation-induced properties and mechanisms of low to high calcium-based alkali-activated cement (AAC) compared with class G cement (GC). Cement systems exposed to carbonated brine for 28 days were experimentally characterised using chemical, mechanical, and microstructural tests. Alkalinity testing indicated a noticeable pH change due to carbonation of GC with a greater release of calcium into the leaching solution, whereas sodium and magnesium leaching were dominant for AACs. Increasing the amount of calcium in AACs via slag increases the extent of carbonation, which improves the mechanical properties, resulting in a dense microstructure. Principal mechanisms of carbonation are suggested based on the chemical, mineral and microstructural characteristics of carbonated cement. AACs have a different mechanism, resulting in complete carbonation compared with the well-defined carbonated zone at the sample surface of GC.

Original languageEnglish
Article number104342
Number of pages15
JournalCement and Concrete Composites
Volume126
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Feb 2022

Keywords

  • Alkali-activated cement
  • CaCO
  • Carbonation mechanisms
  • Class G cement
  • HTHP conditions

Cite this