The interrelationship between surface chemistry and rheology in alkali activated slag paste

Abstract

Ground granulated blast furnace slag can react with an alkaline activating solution to form a cement-like binder based on a calcium-sodium aluminosilicate gel, which is a potential alternative to Portland cement in many applications. This study provides new information regarding the effect of activator type and dosage on rheology by monitoring changes in pH, particle surface charge (zeta potential), and heat evolution in the early stages of the reaction process. Sodium and potassium hydroxide silicate solutions, at two different M O (M: Na, K) dosages, are used here as activators. Alkali hydroxide activators cause a significant increase in the yield stress of an activated slag paste, especi..