Chemical activation of binary slag cement with low carbon footprint

The primary object of this fundamental research will be to reveal the effect of various chemical activators (Na2SO4, Na2CO3, Na2SiO3 and NaOH) on the mechanical and hydration properties of binary slag cement (50% OPC and 50% BFS). Setting time, compressive strength, hydration heat, phase assemble, and pore size structure were systemically explored and compared to the control sample (without any chemical activator). The experiment results shown that the reaction kinetics of cement hydration was influenced differently by various chemical activators. The addition of Na2SO4 increased the cumulative hydration heat and the compressive strength of samples at all curing ages. Furthermore, more ettringite formed in the presence of Na2SO4. While other chemical activators decreased the compressive of samples with significantly enhanced porosity at the same time. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.