Performance and statistical characteristics of ferronickel slag geopolymer concrete.

ABSTRACT: This study investigates the feasibility of substituting river sand with ferronickel slag (FNS) in geopolymer concrete (GC) through comprehensive experiments on mixtures with varying water-to-binder ratios, aggregate-to-binder ratios, and FNS replacement levels. Key properties evaluated include workability (16-30 cm slump, classified as high-fluidity concrete), compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, microstructure, and compressive strength statistics. Results indicate that increasing FNS replacement reduces slump, while higher aggregate-to-binder ratios or lower water-to-binder ratios further decrease workability. FNS-GC exhibits significant early-age strength development, achieving 72% and 94% of standard 28-day compressive strength at 3 and 14 days, respectively, with peak compressive strength observed at 33% FNS content. Similarly, splitting tensile strength (3.2- 4.4 MPa) reaches 75% and 93% of its 28-day value by 3 and 14 days, peaking at 33% FNS replacement and showing positive correlation with compressive strength. Statistically, compressive strength displays considerable variability (coefficient of variation: 0.07-0.17), maximized at 33% FNS replacement. The strength distribution aligns with normal, log-normal, and Weibull functions, with the Weibull distribution providing the optimal fit for characterizing compressive strength behavior.

SUBMITTER: Wang S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12568942 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature