Mechanical and durability properties of alkali-activated fly ash concrete with increasing slag content

Abstract

Alkali-activated concrete is a promising alternative to conventional Portland cement-based concrete. However, further understanding in relation to the durability of alkali-activated concrete is required. This paper explores the resistance of alkali-activated concrete mixes to aggressive media that concrete is expected to encounter in-service. Findings indicate that the chloride, freeze–thaw and acid resistance of alkali-activated concrete increases as the slag content and activator increased. However, performance against chloride and freeze–thaw was not as good as that of Portland cement concrete. Acid resistance seems to be a more promising characteristic of alkali-activated concrete compared with Portland cement concrete.