Studies on physical, chemical and mechanical properties of lime activated slag cement

Abstract

Concrete is the most versatile, indispensable and widely used building material, of which cement is an integral constituent. From the time immemorial Portland cement has
been used as binder in concrete construction. However, the production of the cement is not eco-friendly and consumes enormous amount of energy which ultimately leads to the
depletion of the fossil fuel reserve. In addition to this, it emits noxious greenhouse gases which are harmful for the biosphere. An attractive alternative to Portland cement is the binder obtained by alkaline activation of materials; rich in reactive amorphous silica and alumina. In order to enhance its physical and mechanical properties, slag is activated by different activators along with admixtures. Activated slag cement is a sustainable building material, and this cement product is carbon neutral. The use of slag as a cementious material results in a reduction of greenhouse gases. It also helps in preserving the natural raw materials, which would otherwise have been used in making ordinary Portland cement (OPC).