Influence of Sodium Oxide on Properties of Fresh and Hardened Paste of Alkali-Activated Blast-Furnace Slag

Alkali-activated binders have gained considerable attention in recent years due to their potential to replace Portland cement, with benefits including reduced CO2 emissions and energy savings. This study focuses on the activation of blast-furnace slag from the Isfahan steel plant with an alkali activator, specifically investigating the influence of sodium oxide on both fresh and hardened paste properties. The methodology includes varying concentrations of alkali activators to assess their impact on setting times and mechanical strengths over time. Experimental results indicate that higher dosages of sodium oxide lead to shorter setting times and improved mechanical strengths of the activated slag pastes. These findings underline the importance of optimal alkali activator dosage in enhancing the performance of alkali-activated materials in construction applications. Furthermore, the research suggests that sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate are the most effective activators for achieving desired properties in alkali-activated blast-furnace slag. Such advancements contribute to the growing field of sustainable construction materials, providing viable alternatives to traditional cement-based systems.