Alkali-Activated Slag Materials and Their Properties
Summary
Alkali-activated slag materials comprise ground granulated blast-furnace slag activated by alkaline solutions, yielding binders with reduced carbon footprint compared with ordinary Portland cement. The primary reaction product is a calcium-aluminosilicate-hydrate (C-A-S-H) type gel, which imparts high early compressive strength and excellent chemical resistance. Microstructural features include a dense pore network and a fine gel matrix, leading to low permeability and enhanced durability against sulphate attack and chloride ingress. However, pronounced autogenous and drying shrinkage, rapid setting times and sensitivity to mix proportions present challenges for practical application. Research efforts focus on optimising activator chemistry, precursor blends and curing regimes to tailor rheology, mechanical performance and long-term stability. The global significance of these materials is underscored by their ability to valorise industrial by-products, reduce greenhouse-gas emissions in the built environment and deliver robust performance in aggressive service conditions.
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Alkali-Activated Slag Materials and Their Properties publication trend
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Technical terms
Alkali-activated slag: Ground granulated blast-furnace slag activated by alkaline solutions to form cementitious binders.
C-A-S-H gel: Calcium-aluminosilicate-hydrate gel, the main binding phase in alkali-activated slag materials, responsible for strength and durability.
Autogenous shrinkage: Volume reduction in a binder due to chemical reactions and self-desiccation without moisture exchange with the environment.
Drying shrinkage: Dimensional change resulting from moisture loss to the surroundings, affecting long-term stability.
Geopolymer: Aluminosilicate network formed by alkali activation of precursors such as fly ash or metakaolin, sometimes blended with slag.
References
- Autogenous shrinkage of alkali-activated slag: A critical review. Cement and Concrete Research (2023).
- A Review and Comparative Study of Existing Shrinkage Prediction Models for Portland and Non‐Portland Cementitious Materials. Advances in Materials Science and Engineering (2016).
- Shrinkage mitigation in alkali-activated composites: A comprehensive insight into the potential applications for sustainable construction. Results in Engineering (2023).
- Mitigating shrinkage of alkali activated slag with biofilm. Cement and Concrete Research (2020).
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