Mix Design Properties Research Articles

Optimal Mix Design and Mechanical Properties of Rapid-Hardening Foam Concrete

This paper conducts compressive strength tests on foam concrete prepared under four factors and three levels through the design of orthogonal experiments. It delves into the phase change rules of the load–displacement curves obtained under various mix proportions. Furthermore, based on the 1-day and 3-day compressive strength values, the study explores different mix proportion results using range analysis and variance analysis methods, thereby determining the optimal mix proportion that can satisfy the maximum 1-day and 3-day compressive strength values. The results indicate that the compression process of rapid-hardening foam concrete includes four stages: initial compaction stage, elastic stage, yielding stage, and plateau stage, with each stage having different causes. Additionally, the sensitivity sequence of factors affecting the 1-day and 3-day compressive strength of rapid-hardening foam concrete is respectively rapid sulfoaluminate cement (α) > water-reducing agent content (δ) > foam content (β) > water-cement ratio (γ) and rapid sulfoaluminate cement (α) > water-cement ratio (γ) > foam content (β) > water-reducing agent content (δ). With 100% sulfoaluminate cement content, the 1-day and 3-day compressive strength values can reach 1.7054 and 2.5471 MPa, respectively, which are 13 times and 7 times the minimum values of 1-day and 3-day compressive strength under other admixtures. The analysis shows that the content of rapid sulfoaluminate cement has the most significant effect on the 1-day and 3-day compressive strength of rapid-hardening foam concrete, with foam content having the least impact on 1-day compressive strength and water-reducing agent content having the least impact on 3-day compressive strength. By integrating range analysis and variance analysis, the optimal mix proportion that simultaneously satisfies the maximum 1-day and 3-day compressive strength is determined to be 100% content of rapid-hardening sulfoaluminate cement, 4% foam content, 0.55% cement ratio, and 0.12% admixture content. Overall, this study provides theoretical support for the research and development of new rapid-hardening foam concrete materials and has significant practical implications for the emergency repair and construction of infrastructure projects.

Laboratory performance characterization of polyolefin/ aramid fibers and synthetic aramid fibers reinforced asphalt mixtures

This study was conducted to assess the impact of combined polyolefin/aramid fibers (PFA) and pure synthetic aramid fibers (AF) reinforcement on mix design properties and laboratory performance. The study also investigated the shift in laboratory performance (rutting to cracking and vice versa) with the addition of both type of fibers. One aggregate (diabase stone), one binder type (PG58–28), and two types of aramid fibers (combined polyolefin/ aramid fibers and synthetic aramid fibers), added at 0.05% dosage by mix weight, were used to produce two fiber-reinforced asphalt mixtures (FRAM). Additionally, a control mix was also produced without any reinforcement. Mix design for control and FRAM was performed and Optimum Binder Content (OBC) was determined. The laboratory rutting and cracking performance of the mixtures was assessed using Asphalt Pavement Analyzer (APA), Flow Number (FN) and Indirect Tension Asphalt Cracking Test (IDEAL-CT). Durability and stiffness of these mixtures were also determined by performing Cantabro loss and Dynamic Modulus (DCM) tests. According to the mix design results, PFA reinforced mix showed an offset bulk and theoretical maximum specific gravity. However, both control and FRAM mixtures showed the same OBC (5.7%). Both type of fibers improved the durability of mix. With addition of PFA and AF fibers into the asphalt mix, the performance trend shifted from rut resistant mix to crack resistant mix, respectively. Furthermore, addition of PFA fibers into the asphalt mix increased the toughness and AF fibers make the asphalt mix ductile.

Explorative Study into Alkali-Activated Repair Mortars Using Blast Furnace Slag and Glass Waste

The repair of concrete structures is increasing in prevalence. Conventional repair mortars are expensive materials rich in Portland cement (PC) and other organic and inorganic components that question their economic efficiency and carbon footprint. Alkali-activated materials (AAMs) are an eco-friendly alternative to PC that possess properties desirable for repair mortars. The article presents the mix design, mechanical, bond, and shrinkage properties of alkali-activated binary mortars intended for structural concrete repair. Mix optimisation based on mechanical properties of repair mortar and utilisation of glass waste (GW) is presented together with total and restrained shrinkage, pull-off bond tests, and life cycle assessment (LCA) for selected configurations. Results demonstrate good compressive and flexural strength, exceeding 45 N/mm2 and 7 N/mm2, an excellent pull-off bond strength (1.8–2.3 N/mm2) of the alkali-activated mortar to the concrete substrate, in spite of extensive shrinkage, with an order of magnitude of a couple of thousands of microstrains, which is also reported. Shrinkage appears to increase with the increase of the applied GW in the mixture. LCA revealed that alkali-activated mortars have up to 54% lower CO2 eq. emissions compared to PC-based repair mortar.

Fracture toughness evaluation of ground granulated blast furnace slag concrete using experimental study and machine learning techniques

The relationship between mix design and fracture properties of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) concrete is complex and influenced by many factors, such as mixture composition. This study evaluates the fracture toughness under mode-I, mode-II, and mixed-mode, performed on centrally straight-notched Brazilian discs. An experimental program generated an extensive database of the fracture toughness of GGBFS mortar, consisting of 143 specimens with different mix designs under different loading angle conditions. Then, a combination of support vector regression (SVR) algorithm and genetic algorithm (GA) as hyperparameter tuner was conducted to develop models for fracture toughness. The SVR algorithm was trained with Radial Basis Function (RBF), polynomial, sigmoid, and linear kernel functions. Based on the Taylor diagram, the models demonstrated robust performance in predicting fracture toughness. The performance metrics indicate that the RBF function is the most reliable model, with R2-score 0.95 and 0.94 for KIC and KIIC, respectively. The importance score of input features was determined with the permutation importance function. The angle between the crack and loading direction is the most influential parameter in the models.

Assessment of the impact of binder grade on the laboratory performance of fiber reinforced asphalt mixtures

This study aims to evaluate the impact of different fiber types and binder modifications on the volumetric properties and performance (rutting and cracking) of fiber-reinforced asphalt mixtures (FRAM). Four types of fibers (carbon, fiberglass, basalt, and polyolefin/aramid (PFA) mix) and two binder performance grades (PG 58–28 unmodified and PG 76–22 polymer modified) were used to produce a total of ten asphalt mixtures (two control and eight FRAM). All fibers were introduced at the manufacturer-recommended dosages (i.e., carbon, fiberglass, basalt: at 0.16%, and PFA: at 0.05%) by mix weight. The mix design and volumetrics properties were examined to assess the impact of FRAM on volumetric properties of modified and unmodified binders. Mix characteristics, durability, rutting, and cracking performances were also evaluated by performing several tests, including dynamic modulus test |E*|, Cantabro loss, Asphalt pavement Analyzer (APA), Flow Number (FN), and Indirect Tensile Asphalt Cracking Test (IDEAL-CT). Mix design results showed that FRAM at 0.16% dosage increased the air voids of the unmodified binder (PG58-28). PFA fibers did not have an impact on air voids or volumetric properties of the asphalt mix regardless of modification. Performance results showed that FRAM were highly durable than control mix, but durability is significant for polymer modified binder (PG76-22). Furthermore, only PFA reinforced mixtures showed better rutting resistance for both modified and unmodified binders. The addition of fibers did not show any impact on cracking performance of modified and unmodified binder prepared asphalt mix. Finally, PFA reinforced mix also indicated higher fracture toughness (Gf) and carbon fibers improved the ductility of asphalt mix.

An ensemble tree-based prediction of Marshall mix design parameters and resilient modulus in stabilized base materials

A flexible pavement with an adequate Marshall mix design for the asphalt mixture surface layer(s) and appropriate subbase/base design offers a proper pavement structure for driving safety and comfortability. The conventional approach of calculating the Marshall mix design properties (e.g., stability and flow) and resilient modulus of base materials typically requires laborious, expensive, and time-consuming laboratory sample preparation and testing, such as the Marshall stability test and Resilient modulus test. Therefore, this study conducts research on the application of tree-based ensemble methods specifically, random forest (RFR) and eXtreme gradient boosting regression (XGBR) to predict the properties (mainly including Marshall stability, flow, VMA, VFA, and unit weigh) of asphalt mix following Marshall mix design and resilient modulus (Mr) of stabilized aggregate base material. To develop the prediction models, a comprehensive database was established using existing literature. The performance of the prediction models was evaluated using statistical parameters, performance index (p), and other suggested model performance criteria from external research. Additionally, the Shapley Additive exPlainations (SHAP) interpretation technique was employed to explain the models. The analysis results demonstrate that both RFR and XGBR methods have the excellent fitting capability (R > 0.9). However, XGBR has superior performance in predicting Marshall mix properties and Mr value. Comparison with previous research studies reveals that the proposed models show superior performance than genetic programming-based Marshall mix design models. The RFR model performs approximately similar to ANN, while XGBR outperforms ANN, and particle swarm optimization-extreme learning machine-based models for Mr prediction. Furthermore, the equation developed based on multi expression programming for Mr value prediction exhibits superior performance compared to previous research study gene expression programming model.

Optimizing the strength of geopolymer concrete incorporating waste plastic

In this work, we systematically examine several factors in an effort to maximise the strength of geopolymer concrete that includes recycled plastic. Geopolymer concrete specimens with varying amounts of plastic content, particle size distribution, alkaline activator concentration, mix design, additional materials, additives, and fibre properties were subjected to water absorption and compressive strength tests. Compressive strength was increased to 40 MPa, while water absorption was decreased to 1.5%, all as a consequence of raising the plastic content to 15%. In addition to the ideal concentration of 8 M sodium hydroxide and 3 wt% sodium silicate, the use of coarse plastic particles helped boost the material's mechanical qualities. The employment of a superplasticizer and fibre additives, in addition to the incorporation of silica fume, increased the strength and durability of geopolymer concrete. These results provide light on how to better incorporate waste plastic into the design and formulation of geopolymer concrete, a key ingredient in the development of environmentally friendly and functional building materials.

3D printable concrete: Mixture design and laboratory test methods

Experimental results of the mix design and fresh properties of a proposed concrete for 3D printing are presented in this paper. Layer-by-layer sample components were built by the designed concrete and extruded through a nozzle. The two most critical rheological properties of the designed mix are extrudability and buildability as they are both highly influenced by mix proportion and the presence of superplasticizers. Therefore, this study focused on mix proportion design approaches and laboratory test methods, which generally allowed access to the fresh concrete’s printable properties. Because they are efficient and convenient in construction, materials including cement, fly ash, natural sand, and superplasticizer were selected for mixing proportion analysis. Slump-flow tests, V-funnel tests, buildability tests, and extrudability tests were also employed to access the printability of the proposed mixture in this study. This first analysis on the mixture design approach and laboratory test methods to evaluate the printable properties of 3D-printable concrete can be considered a reference and orientation to further develop 3D printing technology in Vietnam.

Developing novel pothole patching mixtures utilizing iron ore waste as substitute to conventional aggregates with anti-stripping agent

Development of potholes on roads and streets of prominent cities in India after the onset of monsoons is a common phenomenon. The remedy used for restoration of potholes is termed as “Patching” which prevents rapid pavement deterioration and provides smooth traffic flow. The present article aims at developing novel pothole patching mixtures utilizing Iron Ore Waste (IOW) as substitute to conventional aggregates (CA) with anti-stripping agent (ASA). Mix design, adhesion, cohesion, and moisture sensitivity of pothole patching mixtures were evaluated. Mix design properties were evaluated adopting the Marshall method, adhesion properties were evaluated as per Virginia Department of Transportation (DOT) test procedure, cohesion properties were evaluated as per AASHTO TP-44–94, and moisture sensitivity was evaluated using modified Lottman test. The strength of the initial and fully cured stages improved when IOW was substituted with conventional aggregates, and it was higher than 5.1 kN. As for Cohesion, every substance under investigation retained more than 60% of its original composition at the initial test conditions (4 °C and five blows). When tested at 25 °C and five blows, cohesiveness exhibited the same pattern as when tested at 4 °C. The findings of the adhesive test showed that IOW-Z has a maximum adhesion time of 35 s. Moreover, IOW-based pothole patching mixtures outperformed CA-based pothole patching mixtures in terms of resistance to moisture sensitivity. Results also indicate addition of ASA improved adhesion, cohesion, and moisture sensitivity properties of pothole patching mixtures regardless of aggregate type.

A novel prediction model for durability properties of concrete modified with steel fiber and Silica Fume by using Hybridized GRELM

The service life performance of conventional and modified concrete subjected to harsh climatic condition environment is directly related to durability properties of concrete like abrasion, freezing and thawing cycles. These properties are critical issues that should be predicted before performing experimental test. On this basis, the basic purpose of this paper is to predict the abrasion loss, freezing and thawing properties of concrete modified with silica fume (SF) and steel fiber (SFb) by using mix design and additional properties. From this point of view, a conducted experimental study was selected as a case study. In the control concrete (CC) mixtures, Portland cement, crushed stone aggregate, and superplasticizer (SP) were used in the selected experimental study. SP in concrete mixtures was used in the amounts of 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% by weight of cement, and so modified concrete was produced with and without SFb according to the target strength of C25. Furthermore, SF and SFb were used in different amounts to modify the concrete. The SF was replaced with cement in the amounts of 7.5%, 10.0%, and 15.0%. In total, 16 different mix designs were prepared with different SP and SF ratios. In addition, SFb was added to all mixtures of designed concrete at a constant amount of 65 kg/m3. Additionally, a 16-mix design was prepared with SFb. Cumulatively, 32 different mix designs were prepared for the experimental study. Tests on the fresh, hardened, and life-cycle performance properties of the concrete were conducted. As for the metaheuristic part of this study, on the basis of the available experimental data, life-cycle performance parameters of the concrete modified with SF and SFb are predicted by using single and hybrid generalized extreme learning machine methods. Eight different data sets were generated with gradually extended input data. Two different outputs were considered: abrasion resistance (AL) and freezing/thawing (FT). Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) algorithms were used to produce binary and ternary hybrid methods. Four different models were proposed as listed: single use of Generalized Extreme Learning Machine (GRELM), binary use of GRELM-PSO, and GRELM-GWO. Finally, PSO and GWO were hybridized and integrated into GRELM. Two quality indicators, namely Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and correlation of determination (R2), were considered to see the performance of the prediction. The results showed that the proposed ternary prediction model composed of GRELM-PSO-GWO provided more accurate results in all sets from 74% to 91% by extending input parameters, even if complicated parameters are inserted in as an input to the data set.

Potential use of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) for sustainable asphalt pavements of the future: A state-of-the-art review

With the continuous paving of roads around the world, the huge consumption of natural aggregate (NA) obtained through widespread excavation and extraction is now an inevitable part of highway construction. To alleviate this phenomenon, the use of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) is considered beneficial to potentially substitute these aggregates in asphalt mixtures while concurrently providing secondary environmental, economic, and societal benefits. Nevertheless, engineering asphalt mixtures containing RCA to meet desired performance properties still poses several challenges and uncertainties for practitioners. Based on this, the present work reviews the previous relevant literature on this topic and summarizes the potential use of RCA for asphalt pavement related applications. An important characteristic of RCA is that it consists of various interfacial transition zones (ITZs) and voids caused by adhered mortar which leads to higher water-absorption and crushing characteristics as compared to NA. The treating methods used such as mechanical processing, calcium carbonate bio-deposition, and pozzolanic materials incorporation have been shown to be effective to improve the quality of RCA. The structural and material durability of RCA-asphalt pavement is closely dependent on its mix design, moisture-induced damage, and high and low temperature properties, which is in direct relation to the overall properties of RCA. Moreover, the shape variability of RCA during mixture preparation leads to the change in design gradation and its influence on the properties of RCA-asphalt mixtures should be carefully considered. The total substitution of coarse NA by RCA in asphalt pavement can be reached as long as the engineering properties, particularly the moisture susceptibility, are satisfactorily addressed. Overall, the potential application of RCA is a promising candidate to replace the excessive use of NA for the construction of high quality and sustainable asphalt pavements of the future.

Mix Design and Engineering Properties of Fiber-Reinforced Pervious Concrete Using Lightweight Aggregates

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the mix design and performance of fiber-reinforced pervious concrete using lightweight coarse aggregates instead of ordinary coarse aggregates. There were two main stages in the relevant testing work. First, the properties of the matrix were tested with a rheological test and then different amounts of lightweight coarse aggregate and fine aggregate were added to the matrix to measure the properties of the obtained lightweight pervious concrete (LPC). In order to greatly reduce the experimental workload, the Taguchi experimental design method was adopted. An orthogonal array L9(34) was used, which was composed of four controllable three-level factors. There were four test parameters in this study, which were the lightweight coarse aggregate size, ordinary fine aggregate content, matrix type, and aggregate/binder ratio. The research results confirmed that the use of suitable materials and the optimal mix proportions were the key factors for improving the mechanical properties of the LPC. Due to the use of silica fume, ultrafine silica powder, and polypropylene fibers, the 28-day compressive strength, 28-day flexural strength, and 28-day split tensile strength of the LPC specimens prepared in this study were 4.80–7.78, 1.19–1.86, and 0.78–1.11 MPa, respectively. On the whole, the mechanical properties of the prepared LPC specimens were better than those of the LPC with general composition.

Use of recycled aggregates from different sources in the production of SCC. Part I: Mix design and fresh properties

Use of recycled aggregates from different sources in the production of SCC. Part I: Mix design and fresh properties

Mix Design and Mechanical Properties of Pervious Concrete Containing Recycled Concrete and Rubber Waste Aggregate Modified with Polymer Fibers

Mix Design and Mechanical Properties of Pervious Concrete Containing Recycled Concrete and Rubber Waste Aggregate Modified with Polymer Fibers

Critical review of mineral admixture impregnation in bituminous mixes

The effect of different materials in bituminous mixes, as well as their variance in test parameters, are summarised in this paper. Many studies which were carried out earlier were studied to enhance the sustainable parameters from waste materials. Engaging the proper materials usage with precise can make the bitumen more cost-effective and durable one. For user in order to reduce the cost, the engineers started investigation on the usage of treated waste from different industries as filler in the mix. The use of 4–7 percent Fillers is advised because the amount of ash increases the mix's Marshall Stability. It is concluded that stone dust and limestone sludge, cement, coal ash, zeolite powder, limestone, rice husk ash, date seed Ash, broken brick powder, broken tile powder, cow Bone ash, Broken Glass powder, waste brick powder can be used as a filler. All these materials can be used as the filler and combination of these fillers forms a mastic mix of the bitumen and increases durability. The increase in Marshall Properties can be observed by the addition of filler. This critical review research emphasizes the waste material to serve the purpose of increasing the stability, durability and strengthen the mix and to keep the environment clean using these materials gives satisfactory results. According to abundant study, 25% fly ash by total weight of filler bounces with characteristics comparable to traditional Marshall Stability and Flow value of asphalt mix. Apart from these brick dust or stone dust also produce lot of air voids, but it also provide a lot of stability, so it can be used to replace traditional fillers in almost all cases. The Marshall Stability and flow value of the mix design properties after using the above-mentioned fillers are the focus of this study.

Vertical Barriers for Land Contamination Containment: A Review.

Soil pollution is one of the major threats to the environment and jeopardizes the provision of key soil ecosystem services. Vertical barriers, including slurry trench walls and walls constructed with soil mix technology, have been employed for decades to control groundwater flow and subsurface contaminant transport. This paper comprehensively reviewed and assessed the typical materials and mechanical and permeability properties of soil–bentonite, cement–bentonite and soil mix barriers, with the values of mix design and engineering properties summarized and compared. In addition, the damage and durability of barrier materials under mechanical, chemical, and environmental stresses were discussed. A number of landmark remediation projects were documented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the use of barrier systems. Recent research about crack-resistant and self-healing barrier materials incorporating polymers and minerals at Cambridge University and performance monitoring techniques were analyzed. Future work should focus on two main areas: the use of geophysical methods for non-destructive monitoring and the optimization of resilient barrier materials.

Ferrochrome slag aggregate: physical-chemical characteristics and potential use in lightly cemented road bases

PurposeMost developing countries simply dump ferrochrome slag as waste which occupies huge areas of useful land. The purpose of this study is to underscore the significance of reusing ferrochrome slag as a sustainable and eco-friendly road aggregate material, with the added benefits of preventing possible environmental pollution and promoting sustainable mining of non-renewable construction materials.Design/methodology/approachPhysical-mechanical characteristics were investigated using various South African National Standards test procedures. Chemical and mineralogical characteristics were evaluated using the X-ray fluorescence and the X-ray diffraction techniques, respectively. The toxicity characteristic leaching procedure test was used to evaluate the slag’s environmental suitability. Using two cement types, cement proportions of 1%, 2% and 3% of the slag aggregate weight mixed with optimum moisture content of the non-treated compacted slag were used to make lightly cemented ferrochrome slag aggregate (LCFSA) composites, subsequently tested for compressive strength.FindingsFerrochrome slag aggregates have excellent physical-mechanical characteristics that conform to international specifications for use in road base construction. The slag can be classified as non-hazardous solid waste. However, in acidic environments, some toxic elements may leach from the slag and pollute the environment. Optimum cement contents of 2.3% (CEM II) and 2.6% (CEM VB) can be mixed with the slag to produce LCFSA for road bases.Originality/valueNo research was found in literature on the use of LCFSA in road bases. This research, therefore, presents new data on mix design and strength properties of LCFSA as well as some physical-chemical characteristics of coarse ferrochrome slag aggregate.

Flexural optimization of slag-based geopolymer concrete beams modified with corn cob ash

This study investigated the flexural strength of geopolymer concrete (GPC) beams produced with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and corn cob ash (CCA). The design of experiment (DOE), Box-Behnken design (BBD) of the response surface methodology (RSM), was used to optimize the strength. GGBFS was replaced at 0, 20, and 40 wt. % of CCA. The mixes were activated with 14 molar concentration (14 M) of both sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solutions. The mix design properties such as alkaline liquid to binder ratio, binder to aggregate ratio, binder ratio, and curing time were statistically applied as continuous (independent) variables to optimize the response factor (flexural strength). Compared with the control sample (Portland cement concrete), GPC exhibited higher compressive and flexural strengths at up to 40 wt. % of CCA replacement. The models predicted the response of flexural strength with less than 5% variability. Besides, the correlation between the experimental and the optimized flexural strength yielded a high precision with 99.6% “R2”. Therefore, this study's response models would be advantageous in the optimization of mix design proportions for obtaining target flexural strength of GPC beams produced with GGBFS and CCA.

Optimizing the Rheology of Concrete modified with High Silica and Alumina Precursor for Normal Workability in the Built Environment

Concrete performance in its fresh state is not only pertinent for proper concrete placement, consolidation, and finishing but also its properties in its hardened state. Thus, this study optimized the rheology of concrete modified with high silica and alumina precursor (cashew nutshell ash (CNA)). Cashew nutshell was recycled, and the ash obtained was used at 5, 10, and 15 wt.% of cement using the concrete mix designs of grades C 25-40 to attain the target strengths of 25-40 MPa at 28 days. Both slump and its corresponding compressive strength were determined. Moreover, the concrete slump was optimized using the experimental mix design properties (EMDPs) such as cementitious materials, water/cementitious materials, and cementitious materials/aggregate ratios, as independent (continuous variables). The findings showed that EMDPs influenced the rheology of fresh concrete, significantly, hence yielding an optimized high precision with 99 % R2. Therefore, the model can be used to predict the normal workability of the concrete incorporating CNA in the built environment.

Mix design and rheological properties of magnesium potassium phosphate cement composites based on the 3D printing extrusion system

The magnesium potassium phosphate cement composites (MPCCs) with rapid setting, high early strength and low shrinkage performances show considerable potential for 3D printing. In this study, the synergistic effects of magnesium to phosphate (M/P) mass ratio, borax content and fly ash content on the the initial setting time and rheological properties of 3D printed MPCCs (3DP-MPCCs) were investigated using response surface methodology (RSM). The dynamic yielding behaviours are obtained based on Herschel-Bulkley model. The effects of mix design on deformation rate and compressive strength of 3DP-MPCCs were discussed. The results showed that the initial setting time of 3DP-MPCCs was prolonged to 30 min to 90 min by optimizing the mix design and decreased with the increase of M/P mass ratio. The incorporation of borax significantly reduced the consistency factor, which was beneficial to the extrudability of 3DP-MPCCs. High M/P mass ratio was the critical factor for the better buildability of 3DP-MPCCs, which can be further improved by increasing the FA content. Finally, the 3DP-MPCCs with M/P mass ratio of 3.0, 40% borax and 25% FA was determined as the optimal mix design, showing the minimum deformation rate of 0.28% and highest compressive strength of 32.59 MPa, respectively.