Effect of Curing Temperature on Concrete Containing Slag Cement and Fly Ash in Ternary Mixtures

Abstract

This paper will discuss how economic and environmental considerations have promoted the use of supplementary cementing materials (SCMs) such as slag cement (SC) and fly ash (FA). Ternary mixtures containing both slag cement and fly ash have gained popularity due to environmental issues and shortages in the supply of cement. However, in the 2003 Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department (AHTD) Standard Specifications, ternary mixtures were prohibited for use in Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP). Previous research conducted by the University of Arkansas examined ternary mixtures containing SC and FA and cured at 70°F (21°C). This research program examined the strength gain and time of setting characteristics of ternary mixtures cured at lower temperatures. In the study, SC contents ranged from 0 to 40%, and the FA contents ranged from 0 to 60%. Six different mixtures containing Class C FA and Grade 100 SC were batched and tested at temperatures of 70°F (21°C) and below. The curing temperatures for the study were 40, 50, 60, and 70°F (4, 10, 16, and 21°C). The concrete properties measured were concrete temperature, slump, unit weight, air content, time of setting, and compressive strength.