Micro–Nano Structural Stability of Calcium Silicate Hydrate: A Review

Qiang Fu; Junzhou Huang; Ditao Niu

doi:10.1016/j.eng.2026.09.002

Engineering ›› :202609002 DOI: 10.1016/j.eng.2026.09.002

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Micro–Nano Structural Stability of Calcium Silicate Hydrate: A Review

Qiang Fu ^a^,^b
, Junzhou Huang ^a^,^*
, Ditao Niu ^a^,^b

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Abstract

The deterioration of calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H) stability is a key factor contributing to the durability degradation of cement-based materials. This study presents a systematic review of recent advances in C–S–H stability research. First, the basic characteristics of C–S–H are briefly introduced. Second, the multiscale deterioration behavior of C–S–H under exposure to Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, Mg²⁺, carbonation, dissolution, and extreme temperatures is analyzed in detail, and the factors affecting its stability are discussed. The deterioration of C–S–H stability manifests primarily as decalcification, polymerization, and degradation at the atomic scale, as well as pore structure deterioration at the nanoscale. Moreover, the stability of C–S–H is significantly influenced by the Ca/Si ratio and pH. A lower Ca/Si ratio or higher pH improves resistance to decalcification by enhancing electrostatic attraction between Ca²⁺ and silicate chains. Conversely, at high Ca/Si ratios, the increased content of interlayer Ca²⁺ delays Ca²⁺ leaching from the Ca–O sheet under corrosive conditions. Finally, the mechanisms governing the deterioration of C–S–H stability under different corrosive environments are summarized, and the existing challenges and

Keywords

Calcium silicate hydrate / Stability deterioration mechanisms / Decalcification / Ca/Si ratio / Pore structure

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Qiang Fu, Junzhou Huang, Ditao Niu. Micro–Nano Structural Stability of Calcium Silicate Hydrate: A Review. Engineering 202609002 DOI:10.1016/j.eng.2026.09.002

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