Microstructure and mechanical properties of alkali-activated slag mortar modified with latex

Alkali-activated slag (AAS) binders are considered as eco-friendly materials due to its production process. The drawback of using AAS was its rapid setting and microcracks that can be formed due to its shrinkage process. In this study, different types and dosages of latex were suggested to improve setting characteristics and shrinkage of AAS. The used types of latex were Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) latex and Acrylic Ester (AE). The percentages of latex were 5%, 10% and 15%. Microstructure of AAS was studied to investigate the reaction and the effect of latex using thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopic and energy dispersive. The alkali-activated slag mortar properties were investigated by setting time, compressive strength, flexural strength, and drying shrinkage. The test results show that setting time increases by increasing the latex ratio from 0% to 15%, the highest compressive and flexure strength was observed in AAS mortar incorporating 5% SBR.