Durability related transport properties of OPC and slag cement mortars hardened under different environmental conditions

In this work, the durability performances of mortars made with an ordinary Portland cement and a slag cement, were tested. These mortars were exposed to four different constant temperature and relative humidity during 365 days. The measured properties of both cement types are affected by the environment, but the durability of slag cement mortars is more influenced by temperature and the durability of OPC mortars is more influenced by the relative humidity. The obtained results show that the slag cement mortars hardened under non-optimal environmental conditions have good durability at any hardening age, even better than Portland cement.

► Durability of OPC and slag cement hardened under different conditions were studied.
► Environmental conditions influence the durability of OPC and slag cement mortars.
► The durability of slag cement mortars is more influenced by temperature.
► The durability of OPC mortars is more influenced by relative humidity.
► Slag cement mortars have good durability, even better than OPC mortars.