A review: Curing Types and Their Effect on Mechanical Properties of Alkali-Activated Cement Based on Blast Furnace Slag

Abstract

Recent studies aim to reduce the proportion of cement in concrete and cement mortar and replace it with other materials, to move towards sustainable development and reduce its negative effect on the environment. One of the replacement methods used today is blast furnace slag, which has shown its effectiveness and good results in this field. To increase the effectiveness of these results; alkaline activators are used with these mixtures. Despite the improved efficiency of alkali-activated concrete, the mechanical properties of slag-activated cement are significantly influenced by the curing conditions, in both positive and negative ways. Many studies have been conducted primarily on the resistance and durability properties of alkali-activated binders. However, there is insufficient systematic review of how various curing techniques affect the characteristics of alkali-activated binders. Therefore, this review study aims to evaluate the efficacy and durability of various curing types on the performance of slag-based alkali-activated cement including thermal, water, and microwave curing, etc. The results of the studies indicated that strength, porosity, water absorption, and shrinkage are all significantly impacted by the curing process.  As a result, selecting the incorrect curing method reduces the concrete's mechanical properties, causes surface fractures, and speeds up carbonization, which leads to decreased resistance and durability.