Effects of high-volume ground slag powder on the properties of high-strength concrete under different curing conditions

Abstract

Massive high-strength concrete structures tend to have a high risk of cracking. Ground slag powder (GSP), a sustainable and green industrial waste, is suitable for high-strength concrete. We carried out an experimental study of the effects of GSP with a specific surface area of 659 m2/kg on the hydration, pore structure, compressive strength and chloride ion penetrability resistance of high-strength concrete. Results show that adding 25% GSP increases the adiabatic temperature rise of high-strength concrete, whereas adding 45% GSP decreases the initial temperature rise. Incorporating GSP refines the pore structure to the greatest extent and improves the compressive strength and chloride ion penetrability resistance of high-strength concrete, which is more obvious under early temperature-matching curing conditions. Increasing curing temperature has a more obvious impact on the pozzolanic reaction of GSP than cement hydration. From a comprehensive perspective, GSP has potential applications in the cleaner production of green high-strength concrete.