A study on the effect of zeolites (clinoptilolite) on volcanic tuff blended cement paste and mortars

In this study, the effect of clinoptilolite, which is one of the zeolite minerals, on the properties of tuff (volcanic) blended cement was investigated. The physical, chemical, mineralogical and mechanical properties of blended cements containing tuff, clinoptilolite and tuff-clinoptilolite, as well as the electrokinetic interaction of blend-cement particles were examined. Clinoptilolite can be ground easily because of its large number of channels and cavities. It decreases the specific gravity of the blended cement, increases the surface area and affects the diffusion of the water and dissolution of clinker components because of its microporous structure and accelerates the setting time. Tuff and clinoptilolite show different electrokinetic behaviours compared to ordinary Portland Cement.