Probability-based assessment of the durability characteristics of concretes manufactured using CEM II and GGBS binders

This paper presents an overview of an investigation into the durability characteristics of blends of GGBS with CEM II/A Portland cements. The introduction of the Emission Trading Scheme has focussed attention on the carbon footprint arising from concrete construction, leading to many countries employing cementitious binder combinations not previously used. In Ireland for example concrete practice has recently changed to allow the addition of GGBS to CEM II/A cements at the concrete mixer, dependent on these blends providing adequate durability. To demonstrate this performance, specific research was conducted into the influence of GGBS addition on resistance to chloride ingress and carbonation, as well as compressive strength. The data from the testing was then used as input parameters for a number of probabilistic models describing chloride and carbonation related deterioration mechanisms. The influence of GGBS content on the expected service life is determined and compared to other research in this area.