Numerical modeling of microstructure of slag incorporating cement paste

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents a numerical modeling approach aimed at illustrating the complicated microstructure of slag incorporating cement paste. Slag, a by-product of the steel industry, is a sustainable alternative to traditional cementitious materials, and understanding its microstructural characteristics is vital for optimizing its performance in concrete applications. In this study, an advanced computational technique named the CEMHYD3D model was employed to simulate the microstructure of slag incorporating cement paste mixtures. The modeling method involves the discretization of the microstructure and the incorporation of complex hydration reactions. Through this approach, the evolution and microstructural development within the slag-cement paste system over time has been predicted. The microstructural properties of the blend were simulated based on various slag replacement levels and the result agreed with the experimental results. The simulation provides understandings into the interaction between slag particles and the surrounding cementitious matrix, shedding light on the development of the microstructural properties of the composite material. In summary, this paper advances the understanding of the microstructural development of slag-cement paste system through rigorous numerical modeling. The insights gained from these simulations have significant implications for optimizing the use of slag as a sustainable and environmentally friendly component in concrete production.