Characterisation and development of fine porosity in magnesium potassium phosphate ceramics

Characterisation of porosity and microstructure in chemically-bonded ceramics was accomplished by small-angle neutron scattering. Microstructural parameters were also followed during the setting reaction and obtained kinetic curves were compared with results of XRD quantitative phase analysis up to 1 month. Results indicate that less reactive MgO yields a more compact microstructure, the same happens during the progress of the reaction. The reaction product forms from an amorphous precursor and its development was found to scale with the microstructural parameters. A change in reaction mechanism after 40 min is suggested.