Durability of mortar and concretes containing slag with low hydraulic activity

Granulated blast furnace slag has been widely used as a partial substitute for Portland cement in many applications because of advantages which include cost reduction, reduction in heat evolution and improvement of durability properties. However, the effectiveness of slag depends on its hydraulic reactivity. In this paper, the results of an experimental study on the effect of slag with low hydraulicity on the mechanical and durability properties of concrete and the performance of mortar under sulfate attack are discussed. Special attention is given to gas permeability and water absorption of slag concrete. The durability of slag concrete is improved at long term at low Water/Binder ratio. Sulfate resistance of mortar is improved by slag replacement up to 30%.