Influence of alkali-activated materials placement during curing on their dynamic parameters

Abstract

The production of Portland cement has a considerable environmental impact. Its replacement with alkali-activated binders can contribute to reducing the environmental burden of building production. The paper presents partial results from our experimental research carried out on test specimens made of alkali-activated slag mortar (activated by sodium carbonate). The specimens of dimensions 40×40×160 mm differed in the manner of placement after 28 days of curing in water. The samples were tested by non-destructive methods at different ages. We observed the effect of sample storage on ultrasonic pulse velocity, dominant frequency shifts and dynamic modulus of elasticity as well as changes of these parameters over time.