Accelerated aging of a slag-based ettringite binder: mechanical properties and phase evolution

Ladle slag, a by-product from steelmaking process, can be used to produce an ettringite-based binder by activation with a calcium sulfate source. Similarly to other alternative cementitious binders, the ettringite-based binder requires deeper understanding of the mechanical properties and phase evolution during its service life. This study, hence, aims to investigate the mechanical properties and phase evolution of the binder aged at ambient and elevated temperature. This is important information to predict the maturity of the binder based on an Arrhenius model-based approach. Variations in the flexural and compressive strength of materials aged in a water bath at both ambient and elevated temperatures (23°C, 40°C, and 60°C) are used to assess the validity of this approach for long-term mechanical property development of this type of binder