Effects of Ultrafine Blast Furnace Slag on the Microstructure and Chloride Transport in Cementitious Systems under Cyclic Drying–Wetting Conditions

This paper presents experimental investigations into the effects of ultrafine blast furnace slag on microstructure improvements against chloride penetration in saturated and unsaturated cementitious systems exposed to cyclic drying–wetting conditions. The hydration kinetics powders pore solution chemistry slag-blended at different ages, together with main products structure characteristics, were determined. profiles accounting for contents cycles measured. results reveal that reactivity can be well described Avrami’s equation. dilution effect predominated chemistry, pH value decreased a higher inclusion slag. An optimal 65% by mass binder corresponding finest highest hydrotalcite content was found, which provides reasonable basis slow diffusion high binding. Under exposure, specimen lower saturation exhibited transport caused capillary absorption skin layer. tended controlled after sufficient cycles.