Formation of tannic acid-calcium polymeric network in pore solution: Characterization and kinetics

This study investigates the changes of tannic acid (TA) at varying concentrations in cement pore solution. Interestingly, TA spontaneously forms nanosheet tannic acid-calcium polymeric networks (TA-Ca) by interacting with Ca2+. Spectral, thermal, ionic and organic carbon analyses determine the composition and structural characteristics of these networks and detail the formation mechanism. The networks are connected via hydrogen bonding, C–C coupling and complexation. Moreover, network composition, structure and formation are closely dependent on TA concentration. At low concentrations, crystalline coordination polymer networks form, following second-order kinetics (key factor: Ca2+ concentration). At high concentrations, amorphous C–C coupled polymer networks form, following first-order kinetics (key factor: catalytic oxidation of Ca2+). This study aims to elucidate the reaction and mechanism of TA in cement paste, providing a novel theoretical basis for applying renewable bio-admixtures in sustainable construction.