Effect of Red Mud Content on Strength and Efflorescence in Pavement using Alkali-Activated Slag Cement

Efflorescence which severely occurs in alkali-activated slag cement can cause reduction of strength and durability due to calcium leaching. In the work, efflorescence characteristics in pavement containing red mud which can be affected by strong alkaline were investigated through various tests such as compressive strength, porosity, absorption, efflorescence area, alkali leaching content, and properties of the efflorescence compound. The compressive strength of pavement was evaluated to be higher over 15.0 MPa in all cases regardless of replacement ratio of red-mud and binder type, which can provide a reasonable strength for walking and bike lanes. The pavement with red mud was applicable to parking lots only when the replacement ratio of red-mud is within 10%. The efflorescence area increased with a higher replacement ratio of red mud and its propagation appeared though the efflorescence was removed through evaporation of moisture. However, the area of efflorescence gradually decreased with the repetition of the test.