Ground granulated blast-furnace slag

Production and Composition of Ground Granulated BlastFurnace Slag: Chemical composition varies based on raw materials in iron production process Silicate and aluminate impurities combine in blast furnace with flux Slow cooling results in unreactive crystalline CaAlMg silicates Granulation process used to cool and fragment slag for suitable reactivity Applications of GGBS: Used in Europe, US, and Asia for durable concrete structures Major uses include qualityimproved slag cement and readymixed durable concrete Sets slower than ordinary Portland cement, providing lower heat of hydration Reduces risk of damages from alkalisilica reaction and reinforcement corrosion Provides higher resistance to chloride ingress and attacks by sulfate and other chemicals GGBS Cement Uses and Benefits: Added to concrete as replacement for Portland cement Replacement levels vary from 30% to 85%, with typical use between 40% to 50% Provides durability against sulfate and chloride attack Offers nearwhite color for exposed fairfaced concrete finishes Concrete with GGBS has higher ultimate strength than Portland cement Architectural and Engineering Benefits of GGBS: Bulk Electrical Resistivity test indicates higher durability with GGBS Helps limit temperature rise in large concrete pours, reducing thermal gradients Prevents efflorescence and staining of concrete surfaces Recognized by LEED and BEAM Plus for sustainability Optimal GGBS dosage in concrete is 2030% by mass for higher compressive strength Sustainability and External Resources on GGBS: Byproduct of steel manufacturing, improving project sustainability Can be used for superstructure and in chloride/sulfate contact cases Various citations and studies on GGBS performance in concrete External links for more information and resources on GGBS