The use of clays as resource of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) for a new generation of low-carbon cements and concretes is currently the subject of intense research efforts. To this purpose, a large number of clay resources have been explored, characterized and evaluated. This paper introduces the basic knowledge and concepts on clay occurrence and clay mineralogy, before presenting up-to-date knowledge on properties and occurrence of clay resources suitable for use as SCMs. Occurrence, distribution and chemical and mineralogical selection criteria are discussed for kaolinitic clays, which often show superior reactivity and performance. 2:1 clay mineral resources have received somewhat less attention as SCMs resources, however recent developments indicate significant potential for calcined impure common clays, and are reviewed. An overview of ubiquitous clay mineral-bearing waste materials also identifies important opportunities for alternative clay sourcing in mining or extraction residues, and dredged or excavated sediments.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.