Fresh, hardened and durability properties of sodium carbonate-activated Algerian slag exposed to sulfate and acid attacks

This paper investigates the use of Na2CO3 as an alkaline activator on the durability of the alkali-activated slag (AAS) mortar toward sulfates and acids. The behavior of this binder in these aggressive environments is compared to those of slags activated with Na2SiO3 and NaOH. In addition, the setting times, workabilities, mechanical properties and drying shrinkage were evaluated. The AAS had superior workabilities, faster setting times and higher shrinkage rates than the Portland cement (PC). Increases in the activator dosages had positive effects on the mechanical strengths of the materials. Na2SiO3 was the best activator in terms of strength development, but it led to much higher shrinkage. The AAS showed less expansion and lower weight losses than the PC when exposed to sulfate and acids, respectively. The Na2CO3-AAS exhibited less shrinkage and higher resistance to sulfuric acid than the other activators, but the mechanical strength seen at early ages was low.