Engineering properties of alkali-activated binders by use of desulfurization slag and GGBFS

In this study, industrial by-products desulphurization slag powder (DS-P) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) were used as the raw materials for producing non-Portland-cement binders. Material properties and microstructures of the constituents were examined. Fresh behaviors, hardening properties and microstructures of the mortars made with these binders are also investigated. Experimental results showed that DS-P can provide sufficient alkali environment for activating the pozzolanic reactions of GGBFS. The mortar compressive strengths were shown to attain 17 MPa at 28 days of age. A linear proportion between DS-P content and required water amount is also found in the flow test. Increasing the amount of GGBFS would result in a shortened setting time; while increasing the DS-P content would gain a shorten time interval between initial and final setting. Our results suggested that the high alkali feature of DS-P can trigger the pozzolanic reactions of GGBFS mixtures for producing non-Portland-cement binders with satisfying qualities.