One-part alkali-activated blast furnace slag for sustainable construction at subzero temperatures

The construction season is limited in northern countries due to the severe cold weather conditions and their detrimental impacts on concrete quality. Thus, there are excessive expenses required annually for insulation energy-intensive heating systems cold-weather concreting. This experimental study aimed investigate potential of using high-strength one-part alkali-activated blast furnace slag (AAS) without need supplementary systems. Therefore, different subzero curing temperatures hardened properties AAS mortar comparison with cement were assessed. After casting, mortars immediately cured at a temperature 23, ?5, ?10, ?20 °C, up 56d. results showed that lower temperature, UPV compressive strength mortar; however when period was fixed, registered higher than all temperatures. Owing additional room curing, significantly improved. findings further supported by microstructural thermogravimetric analyses.