Resistance of alkali-activated slag concrete to carbonation

This paper presents an investigation into durability of alkali-activated slag (AAS) concrete exposed to carbonation. Two tests were used which simulated exposure of AAS concrete to carbonated solution and to atmosphere high in carbon dioxide. These tests involved immersion of the concrete in 0.352 M sodium bicarbonate solution, and exposure to atmosphere with 10-20% of CO2 at 70% relative humidity. It was found that the resistance of AAS concrete to carbonation was lower than that of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) concrete, and AAS concrete had higher strength loss and depth of carbonation than OPC concrete in both tests. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.