Cracking tendency of alkali-activated slag concrete subjected to restrained shrinkage

Alkali-activated slag concrete (AASC) has higher drying shrinkage than ordinary Portland cement concrete (OPCC). However, the cracking tendency of AASC under drying conditions, when restrained, is unreported. AASC has lower elastic modulus, higher creep, and higher tensile strength than OPCC, and the combined effects of these can affect the cracking tendency of AASC. This article reports the results of cracking tendency utilizing restrained ring tests and discusses the development of a restrained beam test. The effects of curing, aggregate type, and incorporation of shrinkage reducing chemical admixture on the cracking tendency of AASC are reported. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.