Effect of Slag Fineness and Curing Conditions on the Mechanical Properties of Alkali-Activated Blast Furnace Slag Mortars

Abstract

The main objective of this experimental study was to investigate the effect of the slag fineness on the compressive and flexural strengths of ground granulated alkali-activated blast furnace slag mortars. Two types of alkali-activated mortar mixtures were produced using blast furnace slags having the Blaine fineness of 400 m2/kg and 600 m2/kg. Three curing methods; water curing, air curing and outdoor conditions, were applied to the samples. Compressive strengths and flexural strengths of the mixtures were determined at various ages and capillary water absorption tests were also performed. Test results confirm that increasing the fineness of slag had an important effect on the properties obtained. The curing method is also an important factor affecting the results.

Keywords

• Blast furnace slag
• alkali activation
• fineness
• curing conditions
• mechanical strength
• capillary water absorption

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