Formulation and characterization of one-part Ca-based alkali-activated slag-steel slag materials

This study aims to develop one-part Ca-based alkali-activated materials (OCAM) using steel slag (SS) and slag powder (SP) with a Ca-based activator. The effects of SS replacement rate on the flowability, setting time, and mechanical properties of paste were systematically investigated. Furthermore, methods such as Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), heat of hydration, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) were used to compare the effects of calcium oxide (CO) and calcium hydroxide (CH) on the microstructure of the OCAM. The results indicate that the addition of SS enhances mortar flowability and setting time, with optimal mechanical properties when the SS replacement rate is 20 %. However, strength gradually decreases as the replacement rate increases beyond this point. In addition, the incorporation of CO further enhances the mechanical properties of mortar. MIP test results show that the use of CO reduces the internal porosity and refines the micropore structure, although it also increases drying shrinkage. The hydration heat test results reveal that the use of CO increased the total heat release of the sample in the initial 72 h and accelerated the early hydration reaction. Moreover, XRD and SEM results indicate that CO improves carbonation resistance. © 2024 Elsevier Ltd