Ground granulated blast furnace slag-modified magnesium phosphate cement used as grouting material: Workability, mechanical property and corrosion resistance optimization

Abstract

Calcium oxide and alumina, which are significant components of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), can participate in the hydration reaction with phosphate. This study examines the effect of incorporating GGBS as a mineral admixture on the fresh, mechanical, and durability properties of two-component magnesium phosphate cement (MPC)-based grouting materials. The findings reveal that GGBS replacement not only reduces the setting time and the heat released during hydration but also optimizes the fluidity of the fresh slurry at the appropriate replacement level. The optimal content of 20 % GGBS replacement significantly improves the mechanical properties of MPC grouts, achieving up to 28.4 MPa at 28 days, and enhances their resistance against the corrosion of water, chloride, and sulfate ions. XRD results show that the incorporation of GGBS leads to the formation of amorphous phases and secondary hydration products. These findings are corroborated by SEM analysis, which reveals gel-like new hydration products in matrices containing GGBS. Additionally, the incorporation of GGBS reduces the appearance of microcracks and gaps, resulting in a denser microstructure of the MPC matrix.