The Effect of Alkaline Solution-to-Slag Ratio on Permeability of Alkali Activated Slag Concrete

This study investigated the effect of alkaline solution-to-slag ratio on permeability of Alkali Activated Slag Concrete (AASC). Permeability of concrete has a direct impact on its durability, so, in this study, a series of tests were arranged to examine the effect of alkaline solution-to-slag ratio on water impermeability, chloride permeability, short-term and total water absorption, and compressive strength of AASC specimens. In experimental study, four concrete mixes with alkaline solution-to-slag ratios of 0.4, 0.45, 0.50, and 0.55 were considered. One mix made by ordinary Portland cement was also considered for comparison of the results. In general, AASC outperformed the Portland cement concrete. In addition, the results showed that the alkaline solution/slag ratios of 0.45 are the optimum value for AASC mixes from the durability and permeability point of view. Based on the results, there is only a slight difference between short-term water absorption and total water absorption of AASC samples.