Early age strength and workability of slag pastes activated by sodium silicates

This article reports the results of an investigation on the activation of blast furnace slag with emphasis on the achievement of equivalent one-day strength to Portland cement at normal curing temperatures and reasonable workability. The effects of varying dosages of sodium silicate activators are discussed in terms of strength of mini cylinders and also workability by the mini slump method. The results are mainly based on pastes but comparisons are also made with mortar and concrete results. The effects of preblended gypsum dosage within the slag, as well as the effect of ultra fine slag on workability are reported. The results of trials with various water reducing admixtures and superplastisers and their effects on strength and workability are reported.