Abstract

Aqueous grouting compositions based on high alumina cement have the onset of setting delayed for upwards of one month by the incorporation therein of a set-inhibiting agent such as boric acid or gluconic acid delta lactone and can then be rapidly reactivated for use by the incorporation therein of a reactivator, for example lithium carbonate, to produce a high strength hardened cementitious composition. The reactivated composition can advantageously be used to anchor a reinforcing element such as a rockbolt or dowel in a borehole and for this purpose the set-inhibited cementitious composition and the reactivator can be packaged in the separate compartments respectively of a dual-compartment frangible cartridge.