Alkali-silica reactivity of cementitious materials using ferro-nickel slag fine aggregates produced in different cooling conditions

In this study, the alkali-silica reactivity of cementitious materials using ferro-nickel slag (FNS) fine aggregates was experimentally evaluated for potential use in concrete. The results revealed that the reactivity of cement mortars using the aggregates varied with the cooling speed and particle size of the FNS. For example, the rapidly (i.e., water-) cooled FNS exhibited higher alkali-silica reactivity than its gradually (air-) cooled counterpart. The particle size of the water-cooled FNS also affected the reactivity of the specimens. Furthermore, the partial replacement of FNS with sea sand, and of cements with fly ash or ground granulated blast furnace slag was effective in reducing the alkali-silica reactivity of cementitious materials containing FNS as fine aggregates.