Combined influence of slag composition and temperature on the performance of slag blends

This study has investigated the influence of GGBS chemical composition on the strength and transport properties of slag blends under different temperature conditions. Two slags having Ca/Si ratios of 1.05 and 0.94 respectively were used to partially replace a CEM I 52.5R at 30%. Various tests including compressive strength, sorptivity, chloride ingress and chloride binding were carried out on mortar and paste specimens to measure the performance of the slag blends against a CEM I 42.5R at 20 and 38°C. The mortar specimens were cured for 28 days before exposure to a 3% sodium chloride solution. The results obtained showed that temperature had more influence on the performance of the slag blends than the variation in chemical composition. The slag with the higher Ca/Si ratio had better chloride binding and chloride resistance, and this was attributed to its higher alumina content.