High-ferrite Portland cement with glass–ceramic aggregates: Mechanical properties, durability, and interfacial transition zone

Abstract

This study aimed to improve the durability of concrete in the marine environment through the utilization of waste glass-ceramics as aggregates. The investigation focused on their effects on the mechanical strength, chloride attack resistance, and abrasion resistance of high-ferrite Portland cement mortar (HFCM). Inductively coupled plasma, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy-backscattered electronic, and microhardness techniques analyzed the impacts of glass-ceramics on the interfacial transition zone’s (ITZ) composition, structure, and strength. Results demonstrated that glass–ceramic fine aggregates possessed low alkali activity, posing no potential risk of alkali silicate reaction. The partial substitution of natural sand with glass-ceramics improved HFCM’s mechanical strength and resistance to chloride attack and abrasion. The dissolution of trace amounts of Si4+ and Al3+ from the glass-ceramics contributed to the hydration reaction and facilitated the development of a compact and robust ITZ. Overall, HFCM with glass-ceramics effectively resisted the harsh marine environment, specifically against chloride ion erosion and wave erosion.