A discussion of the paper “Electrostatic repulsion between particles in cement suspensions: domain of validity of linearized Poisson–Boltzmann equation for nonideal electrolytes” by R.J. Flatt and P. Bowen

Abstract

In this discussion paper, the authors comment on a study of the electrostatic repulsion between particles in cement suspensions by Flatt and Bowen (2003). The commentator applauds the original authors for departing from the usual practice of treating pore solution as ideal and symmetrical electrolytes. Instead, they have treated them as noninteger symmetric electrolytes. This has allowed the authors to approach the real world situation more closely. The commentator describes some misgivings about the methodology and asks the authors to clear up some of these concerns. The author concludes by asking four questions: what potential should be used to calculate the electrostatic repulsion at the initial stages of hydration? Where should the solid-liquid interface boundary be placed? And how is this interface located? Also, how will the number density of cement hydration products effect the electrostatic repulsion.