Materials

Research

Jump to: Review

20 pages, 4028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the 3D Printability of Engineered Cementitious Composites with Internal Curing for Resilient Construction in Arid Regions

by Tayyab Zafar, Muhammad Saeed Zafar and Maryam Hojati

Materials 2025, 18(14), 3327; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143327 - 15 Jul 2025

Viewed by 383

Abstract

This study investigates the feasibility of pumice-based internal curing based on the 3D printability of engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) for water-scarce environments and arid regions. Natural river sand was partially replaced with the presoaked pumice lightweight aggregates (LWAs) at two different levels, 30% [...] Read more.

This study investigates the feasibility of pumice-based internal curing based on the 3D printability of engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) for water-scarce environments and arid regions. Natural river sand was partially replaced with the presoaked pumice lightweight aggregates (LWAs) at two different levels, 30% and 60% by volume, and 50% of the cement was replaced with slag to enhance sustainability. Furthermore, 2% polyethylene (PE) fibers were used to improve the mechanical characteristics and 1% methylcellulose (MC) was used to increase the rheological stability. Pumice aggregates, presoaked for 24 h, were used as an internal curing agent to assess their effect on the printability. Three ECC mixes, CT-PE2-6-10 (control), P30-PE2-6-10 (30% pumice), and P60-PE2-6-10 (60% pumice), were printed using a 3D gantry printing system. A flow table and rheometer were used to evaluate the flowability and rheological properties. Extrudability was measured in terms of dimensional consistency and the coefficient of variation (CV%) to evaluate printability, whereas buildability was determined in terms of the maximum number of layers stacked before failure. All of the mixes met the extrudability criterion (CV < 5%), with P30-PE2-6-10 demonstrating superior printing quality and buildability, having 16 layers, which was comparable with the control mix that had 18 layers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Asphalt Binder and Mixture for Enhanced Railway Applications

by Ilho Na, Hyemin Park, Jihyeon Yun, Ju Dong Park and Hyunhwan Kim

Materials 2025, 18(14), 3265; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143265 - 10 Jul 2025

Viewed by 263

Abstract

Although asphalt mixtures can be applied to railway tracks due to their viscoelastic properties, caution is required, as their ductility and brittleness are highly sensitive to temperature variations. In recent years, interest in the application of asphalt in railway infrastructure has increased, driven [...] Read more.

Although asphalt mixtures can be applied to railway tracks due to their viscoelastic properties, caution is required, as their ductility and brittleness are highly sensitive to temperature variations. In recent years, interest in the application of asphalt in railway infrastructure has increased, driven by the development of modified mixtures and the broader availability of performance-enhancing additives. Additionally, evaluation methods for railway tracks should be adapted to account for the distinct loading mechanisms involved, which differ from those of conventional roadways. In this study, the comprehensive properties of asphalt binders, mixtures, and testing methods—including physical and engineering characteristics—were assessed to improve the performance of asphalt concrete layers for potential applications in railroad infrastructure. The results of this study indicate that (1) the higher the performance grade (PG), the higher the indirect tensile strength (ITS) value achieved by the 13 mm mixture using PG76-22, which is higher than that of the PG64-22 mixture. This indicates that higher PG grades and modification contribute to improved tensile strength, beneficial for upper layers subjected to dynamic railroad loads. (2) The tensile strength ratio (TSR) increased from the unmodified mixture to over 92% in mixtures containing crumb rubber modifier (CRM) and styrenic thermoplastic elastomer (STE), demonstrating enhanced durability under freeze–thaw conditions. (3) Wheel tracking test results showed that modified mixtures exhibited more than twice the rutting resistance compared to PG64-22. The 13 mm aggregate mixtures also generally performed better than the 19 mm mixtures, indicating reduced permanent deformation under repeated loading. (4) It was concluded that asphalt is a suitable material for railroads, as its overall characteristics comply with standard specifications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 11588 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seawater-Activated Mineral Synergy in Sulfoaluminate Cement: Corrosion Resistance Optimization via Orthogonal Design

by Chuanlin Wang, Shupeng Zhou, Qingyou Ou, Junkai Liu and Ming Wu

Materials 2025, 18(11), 2428; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18112428 - 22 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 354

Abstract

Mineral admixtures exhibit significant enhancement effects on the seawater corrosion resistance of sulfoaluminate cement (SAC). This study systematically investigates the influence mechanisms of fly ash (FA), silica fume (SF), and slag powder (SP) on the physicochemical properties of SAC-based materials. Experimental results demonstrate [...] Read more.

Mineral admixtures exhibit significant enhancement effects on the seawater corrosion resistance of sulfoaluminate cement (SAC). This study systematically investigates the influence mechanisms of fly ash (FA), silica fume (SF), and slag powder (SP) on the physicochemical properties of SAC-based materials. Experimental results demonstrate that FA effectively enhances the fluidity of fresh SAC paste while mitigating drying shrinkage. Under standard curing conditions, the compressive strength of SAC mortar decreases with increasing FA content, reaching optimal performance at a 5% replacement level. However, in seawater immersion environments, FA undergoes chemical activation induced by seawater ions, leading to a positive correlation between mortar strength and FA content, with the 10% replacement ratio demonstrating maximum efficacy. SF addition reduces workability but significantly suppresses shrinkage deformation. While exhibiting detrimental effects on flexural strength under standard curing (optimal dosage: 7.5%), a 5.0% SF content manifests superior seawater resistance in marine environments. SP incorporation minimally impacts mortar rheology but exacerbates shrinkage behavior, showing limited improvement in both standard-cured compressive strength and seawater corrosion resistance. Orthogonal experimental analysis reveals that SF exerts the most pronounced influence on SAC mortar fluidity. Both standard curing and seawater immersion conditions indicate FA as the dominant factor affecting mechanical strength parameters. The optimal composite formulation, determined through orthogonal combination testing, achieves peak compressive strength with 5% FA, 5% SF, and 5% SP synergistic incorporation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 12373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Properties of Foamed Concrete Based on Plaster Mortar with Polystyrene Granulate and Synthetic Foaming Agent

by Monika Gwóźdź-Lasoń, Wacław Brachaczek, Marta Kadela and Alfred Kukiełka

Materials 2025, 18(9), 2115; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18092115 - 5 May 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 646

Abstract

According to EU directives, it is necessary to improve the energy consumption of buildings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to improve the physical properties of foamed concrete produced using plaster mortar. For this purpose, polystyrene granulate with a bulk density of [...] Read more.

According to EU directives, it is necessary to improve the energy consumption of buildings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to improve the physical properties of foamed concrete produced using plaster mortar. For this purpose, polystyrene granulate with a bulk density of 13 kg/m³ in amounts of 4, 7, and 10 g per 1 kg of plaster mortar and a foaming agent in amounts of 2, 4, and 6% of the cement mass were used. The density, thermal conductivity coefficient, compressive and flexural strengths, and water absorption coefficient due to capillary action were determined. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the density, thermal conductivity coefficient, and water absorption coefficient due to capillary action decreased with an increase in the content of polystyrene granulate addition, which is a beneficial outcome. However, at the same time, a reduction in mechanical properties was demonstrated. With an increase in the content of the foaming agent, the density and thermal and mechanical properties decreased. The water absorption coefficient due to capillary action increased with the foaming agent content for samples with the addition of polystyrene granulate. However, the coefficient for all the tested samples was lower than that for the base sample. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 1939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Durable Mortar Mixes Using 50% of Activated Volcanic Ash as A Binder

by Andrés Játiva, Andreu Corominas and Miren Etxeberria

Materials 2025, 18(8), 1777; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18081777 - 13 Apr 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 530

Abstract

Volcanic ash (VA) is an abundant resource in many world regions that can be used as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). However, its low reactivity limits its applications as a replacement for Portland cement. In this study, the improvement of its reactivity was [...] Read more.

Volcanic ash (VA) is an abundant resource in many world regions that can be used as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). However, its low reactivity limits its applications as a replacement for Portland cement. In this study, the improvement of its reactivity was evaluated through the calcination of VA (CVA) at 700 °C, alkali activation with Na₂SiO₃, CaCl₂, and Na₂CO₃, as well as its combination with other SCMs (lime, fly ash, and blast-furnace slags). Additionally, the effect of curing was analysed under different regimes: standard moist curing and heat curing. The use of alkaline activators, especially 2% Na₂SiO₃ and 1% CaCl₂, along with thermal curing (70 °C for 3 days) in mortars containing 50% VA, resulted in compressive strengths at 28 days, significantly higher than those obtained for mortars with non-activated VA or those cured under moist conditions. Furthermore, the addition of 10% fly ash (FA) and 5% slag (EC) to the mortars also led to the largest improvements in compressive strength. In addition, mortars cured at 70 °C exhibited lower shrinkage and improved resistance to acid attacks, particularly in those manufactured with CVA and 1% CaCl₂. This study concludes that it is possible to optimise the design of mortars with 50% VA in replacement of ordinary cement based on activation and curing methods. These methods improve early-age strength, reduce shrinkage and water absorption, and enhance acid resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 19288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical and Microstructural Performance of UHPC with Recycled Aggregates Modified by Basalt Fiber and Nanoalumina at High Temperatures

by Hong Jiang, Liang Luo, Yuan Hou and Yifei Yang

Materials 2025, 18(5), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18051072 - 27 Feb 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 783

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical properties and microstructure of basalt fiber (BF) and nanoalumina (NA)-modified ultra-high-performance concrete with recycled aggregates (UHPC-RA) under high-temperature conditions. The effects of different replacement rates of recycled aggregates (RAs), BF content, and NA content on the compressive strength, [...] Read more.

This study investigates the mechanical properties and microstructure of basalt fiber (BF) and nanoalumina (NA)-modified ultra-high-performance concrete with recycled aggregates (UHPC-RA) under high-temperature conditions. The effects of different replacement rates of recycled aggregates (RAs), BF content, and NA content on the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and elastic modulus were evaluated at ambient temperatures and after exposure to 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C, and 800 °C. The results show that mechanical properties decrease with temperature rise, but specimens containing BF exhibited improved crack resistance and better high-temperature integrity. The incorporation of NA enhanced the thermal stability and heat resistance of the concrete. Digital image correlation (DIC) was used to monitor real-time surface deformation, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed improved microstructure with reduced porosity and cracks. This study demonstrates that the combination of BF and NA significantly enhances the high-temperature performance of UHPC-RA, which holds promising potential for applications in environments subjected to elevated temperatures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 6461 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microscopic Mechanical Properties and Physicochemical Changes of Cement Paste Exposed to Elevated Temperatures and Subsequent Rehydration

by Lei Xu, Xiaochuan Hu, Ruifeng Tang, Xin Zhang, Yan Xia, Bo Ran, Jinlong Liu, Shiyu Zhuang and Weichen Tian

Materials 2025, 18(5), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18051050 - 27 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 690

Abstract

The effect of elevated temperatures and subsequent rehydration on the microscopic mechanical properties and physicochemical changes of cement pastes was investigated. Cement pastes with different grades (CEM I 42.5, CEM I 52.5) and different water-to-cement ratios (0.3, 0.4) were exposed to target temperatures [...] Read more.

The effect of elevated temperatures and subsequent rehydration on the microscopic mechanical properties and physicochemical changes of cement pastes was investigated. Cement pastes with different grades (CEM I 42.5, CEM I 52.5) and different water-to-cement ratios (0.3, 0.4) were exposed to target temperatures of 300 °C, 600 °C, and 900 °C, followed by rehydration. Several characterization techniques, including the Vickers microhardness test, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, and ¹H Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy, were employed to assess changes in the microscopic mechanical and physicochemical properties of the cement pastes resulting from the heating and rehydration treatments. The results indicate that the cement pastes with higher grades and a higher water-to-cement ratio exhibit better resistance to high temperatures. The heating process alters the water distribution and structure of C-S-H gel, leading to the collapse of its interlayer structure and an increase in gel porosity. Elevated temperatures (300 °C and 600 °C), followed by rehydration, enhance the Vickers microhardness of the cement pastes. However, excessively high temperatures (900 °C) weaken the micro-mechanical properties and may cause damage. Cement pastes heated to 600 °C show a more significant recovery in micro-mechanical properties compared to those heated at 300 °C, which is attributed to the rehydration of a new amorphous nesosilicate phase formed at 600 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 4545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rheological, Fresh State, and Strength Characteristics of Alkali-Activated Mortars Incorporating MgO and Carbon Nanoparticles

by Mohammad Ali Hossain and Khandaker M. A. Hossain

Materials 2024, 17(23), 5931; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17235931 - 4 Dec 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1511

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the fresh state, rheological, and mechanical properties of alkali-activated mortars (AAMs) developed by incorporating magnesium oxide (MgO) and nanomaterials. A total of 24 AAM mixes with varying content of MgO, multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), and reduced [...] Read more.

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the fresh state, rheological, and mechanical properties of alkali-activated mortars (AAMs) developed by incorporating magnesium oxide (MgO) and nanomaterials. A total of 24 AAM mixes with varying content of MgO, multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) were developed following the one-part dry mix technique using powder-based activators/reagents. The effects of the types/combinations of source materials (binary or ternary)/reagents, MgO (0 to 5%), MWCNT (0 to 0.6%), and rGO (0 to 0.6%) were evaluated in terms of the mini-slump flow, setting times, viscosity, yield stress, compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and microstructural properties. The results showed that the addition of finer MgO/nano-fillers produced a higher viscosity and yield stress accompanied by a lower slump flow and setting times. The addition of 5% MgO resulted in the lowest slump flow of 80 mm, 2–2.5 times higher viscosity, and the reduction in the initial and final setting times of about 21% and 16%, respectively. Mixes with MWCNT showed about 5–10% higher viscosity whereas for mixes with rGO, the values were noted to be 8% higher, on average, than the mixes with no MWCNT or rGO. All the developed AAMs exhibited shear-thinning behavior. The 28-day compressive strength of the AAMs ranged from 37 MPa to 49 MPa with 5% MgO and up to a 0.3% MWCNT/rGO addition increased the compressive strength. Correlations among the fresh state, rheological, and mechanical properties such as the viscosity, slump flow, setting time, compressive strength, and UPV are also described. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 6682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of Sintered Sludge Ash with Different Mechanical–Thermal Activation Parameters as a Supplementary Cementitious Material: Mechanical Properties and Life Cycle Assessment of Cement-Based Paste

by Tong Lv, Jinrui Zhang, Maoxi Zhao, Jiapeng Yang, Dongshuai Hou and Biqin Dong

Materials 2024, 17(16), 4101; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17164101 - 19 Aug 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1258

Abstract

The proposal of sintered sludge cement (SSC) paste aligns with the low-carbon development goals of building materials. However, there is a lack of scientific guidance for the preparation of sintered sludge ash (SSA). Herein, this study systematically investigates the influence mechanism of mechanical–thermal [...] Read more.

The proposal of sintered sludge cement (SSC) paste aligns with the low-carbon development goals of building materials. However, there is a lack of scientific guidance for the preparation of sintered sludge ash (SSA). Herein, this study systematically investigates the influence mechanism of mechanical–thermal activation parameters of SSA on the mechanical properties and life cycle assessment (LCA) of SSC paste, and conducts a comprehensive evaluation using a radar chart and the TOPSIS method. The results show that with the increase in calcination temperature and duration, the compressive and flexural strengths of the SSC paste are improved, especially at 600 °C and above, increasing by 57.92% and 62.52%, respectively. The longer calcination time at 1000 °C results in a decrease in its mechanical properties. The addition of SSA significantly reduces the LCA indicators of cement paste. Specifically, 30% SSA only contributes 8.1% to the global warming potential. Compared to calcination, the LCA indicators have less sensitivity to ball milling, and prolonging the time hardly increases them. Based on performance and environmental impact, the optimal SSA is obtained by calcining at 800 °C for 2 h and ball milling for 10 min. This study can provide theoretical guidance for efficient building material utilization of dredged sludge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

32 pages, 22137 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Reactivation of Hydrated Cement Paste: Properties and Impact on Cement Hydration

by Asghar Gholizadeh-Vayghan, Guillermo Meza Hernandez, Felicite Kingne Kingne, Jun Gu, Nicole Dilissen, Michael El Kadi, Tine Tysmans, Jef Vleugels, Hubert Rahier and Ruben Snellings

Materials 2024, 17(11), 2659; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17112659 - 31 May 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1501

Abstract

In this research, the properties and cementitious performance of thermally activated cement pastes (referred to as DCPs) are investigated. Hydrated pastes prepared from Portland cement and slag blended cement were subjected to different thermal treatments: 350 °C for 2 h, 550 °C for [...] Read more.

In this research, the properties and cementitious performance of thermally activated cement pastes (referred to as DCPs) are investigated. Hydrated pastes prepared from Portland cement and slag blended cement were subjected to different thermal treatments: 350 °C for 2 h, 550 °C for 2 h, 550 °C for 24 h and 750 °C for 2 h. The properties and the reactivity as SCM of the DCPs were characterised as well as their effect on the mechanical performance and hydration of new blended cements incorporating the DCPs as supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). It was observed that the temperature and duration of the thermal treatment increased the grindability and BET specific surface area of the DCP, as well as the formation of C₂S phases and the reactivity as SCM. In contrast, the mechanical strength results for the blended cements indicated that thermal treatment at 350 °C for 2 h provided better performance. The hydration study results showed that highly reactive DCP interfered with the early hydration of the main clinker phases in Portland cement, leading to early setting and slow strength gain. The effect on blended cement hydration was most marked for binary Portland cement–DCP blends. In contrast, in the case of ternary slag cement–DCP blends the use of reactive DCP as SCM enabled to significantly increase early age strength. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

27 pages, 9184 KiB

Open AccessReview

Interaction Between Polycarboxylate Superplasticizer and Clay in Cement and Its Sensitivity Inhibition Mechanism: A Review

by Yu Gao, Yingying Liu, Guanqi Wang, Jiale Liu, Zijian Cao, Qiwen Yong and Hongwei Zhao

Materials 2025, 18(11), 2662; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18112662 - 5 Jun 2025

Viewed by 761

Abstract

In contemporary construction practices, polycarboxylate superplasticizers (PCEs) have gained extensive utilization in concrete formulation owing to their exceptional dispersive properties and superior water reduction capabilities. Nevertheless, these admixtures demonstrate pronounced susceptibility to clay contamination, a critical limitation that substantially constrains their practical implementation. [...] Read more.

In contemporary construction practices, polycarboxylate superplasticizers (PCEs) have gained extensive utilization in concrete formulation owing to their exceptional dispersive properties and superior water reduction capabilities. Nevertheless, these admixtures demonstrate pronounced susceptibility to clay contamination, a critical limitation that substantially constrains their practical implementation. To mitigate this detrimental effect, multiple technical strategies have been developed to suppress clay sensitivity, with predominant approaches focusing on molecular structure optimization and incorporation of supplementary admixtures. This review systematically investigates the competitive adsorption mechanisms operating at the cement–clay interface. Through rigorous analysis of molecular architecture characteristics and synergistic admixture combinations, we comprehensively review current methodologies for enhancing the clay resistance of PCE-based systems. Furthermore, this paper proposes prospective directions for synthesizing clay-tolerant PCE derivatives, emphasizing molecular design principles and advanced formulation protocols that may inform future research trajectories in construction materials science. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

25 pages, 2152 KiB

Open AccessReview

Turning Waste into Greener Cementitious Building Material: Treatment Methods for Biomass Ashes—A Review

by Fatih Bülbül and Luc Courard

Materials 2025, 18(4), 834; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18040834 - 14 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1028

Abstract

The production of biomass ash (BA) is expected to increase in the future, as biomass is generally considered a carbon-neutral fuel. BA potentially concentrates heavy metals and trace elements at high levels. With the growing production of BA, its disposal in landfills or [...] Read more.

The production of biomass ash (BA) is expected to increase in the future, as biomass is generally considered a carbon-neutral fuel. BA potentially concentrates heavy metals and trace elements at high levels. With the growing production of BA, its disposal in landfills or recycling must be addressed through solid waste policies and within the framework of a circular economy. Utilizing BA as a cement substitute solves disposal issues while offering environmental benefits aligned with the circular economy. However, the varying physical and chemical properties of BA, influenced by factors such as biomass type and combustion technique, necessitate more effective utilization strategies. Consequently, researchers are developing various treatment methods to ensure that BA meet the necessary requirements and do not pose problems such as heavy metal or chlorine leaching. These treatments facilitate the production of concrete with higher compressive strength at greater cement replacement levels, supporting greener construction practices. This review consolidates existing BA data and treatment methods, focusing on their impacts and efficiency. It also explores combined treatments and potential new approaches. By providing a foundation for future research and practical applications, this study aims to improve treatment techniques, helping the industry mitigate environmental risks and advance carbon-neutral construction solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

26 pages, 20853 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Utilization of Carbonated Steel Slag as a Supplementary Cementitious Material in Cement

by Xinyue Liu, Pengfei Wu, Xiaoming Liu, Zengqi Zhang and Xianbin Ai

Materials 2024, 17(18), 4574; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17184574 - 18 Sep 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2335

Abstract

Carbon emission reduction and steel slag (SS) treatment are challenges in the steel industry. The accelerated carbonation of SS and carbonated steel slag (CSS) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in cement can achieve both large-scale utilization of SS and CO₂ emission [...] Read more.

Carbon emission reduction and steel slag (SS) treatment are challenges in the steel industry. The accelerated carbonation of SS and carbonated steel slag (CSS) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in cement can achieve both large-scale utilization of SS and CO₂ emission reduction, which is conducive to low-carbon sustainable development. This paper presents the utilization status of CSS. The accelerated carbonation route and its effects on the properties of CSS are described. The carbonation reaction of SS leads to a decrease in the average density, an increase in the specific surface area, a refinement of the pore structure, and the precipitation of different forms of calcium carbonate on the CSS surface. Carbonation can increase the specific surface area of CSS by about 24–80%. The literature review revealed that the CO₂ uptake of CSS is 2–27 g/100 g SS. The effects of using CSS as an SCM in cement on the mechanical properties, workability, volume stability, durability, environmental performance, hydration kinetics, and microstructure of the materials are also analyzed and evaluated. Under certain conditions, CSS has a positive effect on cement hydration, which can improve the mechanical properties, workability, bulk stability, and sulfate resistance of SS cement mortar. Meanwhile, SS carbonation inhibits the leaching of heavy metal ions from the solid matrix. The application of CSS mainly focuses on material strength, with less attention being given to durability and environmental performance. The challenges and prospects for the large-scale utilization of CSS in the cement and concrete industry are described. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition))

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Preparation and Properties of New Cementitious Materials (2nd Edition)

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (13 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI