Effect of Silica Fume and Slag on Compressive Strength and Abrasion Resistance of HVFA Concrete

In this study, portland cement (PC) has been partially replaced with a Class F fly ash (FA) at level of 70 % to produce high-volume FA (HVFA) concrete (F70). F70 was modified by replacing FA at levels of 10 and 20 % with silica fume (SF) and ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) and their equally combinations. All HVFA concrete types were compared to PC concrete. After curing for 7, 28, 90 and 180 days the specimens were tested in compression and abrasion. The various decomposition phases formed were identified using X-ray diffraction. The morphology of the formed hydrates was studied using scanning electron microscopy. The results indicated higher abrasion resistance of HVFA concrete blended with either SF or equally combinations of SF and GGBS, whilst lower abrasion resistance was noted in HVFA blended with GGBS.