The Quantification of Micro-structural Damage of Weak Muddy Intercalation in Dry-wet Cycles Combining in-situ SEM and DIP

Abstract

In order to reflect truly the damage evolution mechanism of weak muddy intercalation in dry-wet cycles, two typical weak muddy intercalations were selected for dry-wet cycles. The mineral changes of specimens were analyzed via X-ray diffraction after dry-wet cycles. By combining in-situ SEM and digital image processing (DIP), the damage evolution process and damage characteristic parameters of each stage were obtained. The experimental results indicate that the hydration and dissolution of minerals can not be a determinant factor in structure damage. The micro-structural damage is due to disintegration of mineral aggregates, leading to changes in the number and size of cracks and pores. The damage degree of specimens is related to its initial structure, and the micro-structural damage intensifies and finally tends to stabilize with cycle times increased.

Keywords

dry-wet cycles / weak muddy intercalation / in-situ SEM / digital image processing / microstructural damage