Some general and special research needs have been identified during the course of this Network.

General

• For all CEM II besides CEMII/M and for CEM III, the particle size distribution (fineness) of each component of blended cements should be further investigated aiming to improve cement properties (strength, water demand expansion etc.) and to increase their participation (even beyond EN 197-1).
• For all Composite Cements with more than two main constituents the effect of combination of components should be further investigated focusing on synergy and optimization. The ultimate goal should be to retain the advantages and restrict or cancel weaknesses of each component in terms of process, properties and durability.
• Blended cements should be linked with as many as possible concrete durability properties besides the issues already covered by ECOserve. Durability models should be developed and probably virtual testing should be implemented.
• Define (in terms of Standards where appropriate) realistic measurements and/or characterization techniques for properties valuable to assess durability (e. g. aggressive sulfur salts environment).
• Research in utilization of various industrial byproducts not included in EN 197-1. Attention should be focused on locally produced byproducts in order to minimize transportation and to insure that their addition offers equivalent properties to the main constituents of EN 197-1.
• Production of Low-Energy Cements (high C₂S content) in order to reduce fuel consumption and CO₂-emissions.
• Considering all possible parameters like environmental conditions, application practices etc, specific component-related issues should be thoroughly investigated (e.g. possible barriers to limestone utilization concerning thaumasite formation and functioning of ettringite in blended cements with high sulphate content).

Special items

• For the following cements further experimental work should be carried out:
  • High volume limestone cement with up to 45 % limestone (Germany/Italy);
  • Combining 10% LL with 20-35% pfa (Norway).
  • High volume pozzolanic and limestone cement with 45% additive in strength class 42.5 (Greece).

  For the German situation more test with different limestone qualities have to be carried out. With regard to the freeze thaw resistance more correlations between fiffent test methods are needed (comp. next bullet point).

• For some tests (e. g. beam test) different acceptance criteria are used in Europe. This should be aligned as far as possible.
• Fundamental studies of internal frost damage and testing procedures with regard to the to avoidance of deviations between test results and perception about field performance.

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