Development of sustainable preplaced aggregate concrete with alkali-activated slag grout

This study aims at endowing preplaced aggregate concrete (PAC) with exceptional sustainably via using alkali-activated grouts in its production. Accordingly, the mechanical properties and pore structure of PAC produced with alkali-activated slag grout having different alkali activator concentrations were investigated and compared to that of control OPC-based PAC. Efflux time and spread flow of the grout mixtures were determined, along with the compressive and splitting tensile strengths, modulus of elasticity, and water absorption and sorptivity of the corresponding PAC mixtures. Scanning electron microscopy and mercury intrusion porosimetry analyses were further deployed to assess microstructural features. Results demonstrate that structural alkali-activated PAC could be developed, which could offer substantial sustainability advantages in various construction applications. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.