Physicochemical studies of the structure of energy-saving compositions based on slags

Abstract

Abstract Blast furnace slags are subdivided into granular and dump. Granulated slag is widely used in the construction industry to production of Portland cement, Portland slag cement, slagalkaline cements, and concretes based on these cements. Dump slag is of less use, because it has low activity. The phase composition of granular and waste slag was investigated by methods of physicochemical analysis. The slags contain minerals that are present in Portland cement clinker. Concrete samples were made using granular, waste slag and sand. Unsatisfactory results in compressive and flexural strength were shown by a sample made of only two types of slag. The best strength results were obtained for a composition in which there are three components: granular slag, dump slag (filler) and sodium hydroxide. Electronic images have confirmed the appearance of low-basic calcium silicates, which provide the strength of the cementless composite. The resulting concrete composition is resource-saving, because made from production waste. And it can be called energy-saving, because no energy is expended to obtain components. The ecological feasibility of the production of such concrete is due to the absence of emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere (including carbon dioxide), since the firing of cement clinker is not needed.