Investigation on effect of partially replacing cement by GGBFS (ground granulated blast furnace slag) in concrete

Abstract

Strength and durability are two key aspects of the construction industry all over the world. Even though durability still holds an important position and it will have a huge impact in the maintenance period of a structure, at present the importance of strength has overtaken durability considerations due to fast pace of construction. This paper focuses on improving the durability aspects of concrete without reducing the strength of concrete to ensure the fast pace construction in an efficient and eco-friendly way. It would be achieved through the partial replacement of GGBFS (Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag) to cement. Cement has been partially replaced by GGBFS up to 30% in the research and several tests were done to find strength and durability properties of concrete. For strength, compressive strength test was done in 7 days (early strength) and 28 days and for durability, water absorption test and sorptivity tests were done. By comparing the results with each other replacements (10%, 20%, and 30%) and control mix by considering both strength and durability properties conclusions and recommendations were made. Conclusions of this research show that the 20% GGBS is a good replacement to cement by considering the strength, durability and future expectations of the industry.