Enhancing the mechanical and durability properties of subzero-cured one-part alkali-activated blast furnace slag mortar by using submicron metallurgical residue as an additive

Cold weather (<0 °C) is known for its detrimental impacts on concrete, and thus expensive energy-consuming heating insulation systems are used in cold-weather concreting to prevent frost damage. Supplementary cementitious materials not recommended use because they slow down the setting time of concrete. In this study, one-part alkali-activated slag (AAS) was presented as an alternative environment-friendly binder winter construction. The iron-containing submicron metallurgical residue reactivity, hardened properties, durability subzero-cured AAS pastes mortars were comprehensively studied. incorporation particles (SMPs) enhanced reactivity by increasing amount precipitated hydrate phases developing supplemental hydration products like calcium ferrosilicate hydrate. positive effects SMPs highlighted via denser microstructure, higher ultrasonic pulse velocity, increased compressive strength, better properties mortars. These improvements attributed nucleation filling behaviors added SMPs. On contrary, decreased subzero curing temperature hindered reaction progress, which adversely affected limited efficiency. With additional above-zero curing, strength lower water absorption permeable porosity measured mortar cured initially at −5 °C compared that +20 °C.