Ultra-high performance concrete with one-part alkali-activated slag

Abstract

<div lang="en" class="abs"><p class="abs_header">Abstract</p><p>One-part (just-add-water) alkali activated binders are of interest due to their ease in practical applications, particularly in on-site works. This paper focuses on a method to develop ultra-high performance one-part alkali activated concrete using particle packing technology. Modified Andreassen particle packing model is employed to optimize the binder and aggregate content that results in a denser matrix. Two different q-parameter values are used in designing the mixes to evaluate its influence in properties like flowability and compressive strength. Lower q-value leads to higher binder content i.e., it moves towards the finer gradation of particles. Mixes with higher fines content show better workability with high flow percentages measured by the spread table (>120% flow). Variation in water-to-binder ratio (0.25–0.35) affects the flow and compressive strength of alkali activated concrete irrespective of q value used in the design. Compressive strengths over 120 MPa is achieved after 28-day curing. The concept of ultra-high performance concrete with particle packing technology is well established by concrete technologists. However, its application in geopolymer concrete, in specific to one-part alkali activated materials is explored for the first time in this work.</p></div>