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Journal of Metals, Materials and Minerals

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This study explores the synergistic effect of ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) and limestone powder (LS) on the hydration behavior and mechanical performance of ternary cement systems. Calorimetry revealed that 30GGBS mix showed a significantly lower peak of about 2.3 mW∙g‒1 and a delayed response. In contrast, the incorporation of LS enhanced early hydration, with the 30LS mix reaching a peak of approximately 2.8 mW∙g‒1 around 6 h. Among ternary blends, 15GGBS–15LS exhibited the highest and earliest heat flow peak (about 2.55 mW∙g‒1 around 7.5 h), while 25GGBS–5LS showed a slower response (about 2.45 mW∙g‒1 around 9.5 h). Despite differences in kinetics, all ternary mixes showed similar cumulative heat at 48 h (226.6 J∙g‒1 to 229.4 J∙g‒1), indicating that GGBS–LS synergy balances early kinetics and total heat evolution. Thermogravimetric analysis confirmed the formation of key hydration phases, including C–S–H, ettringite, monocarboaluminate, and calcium carbonate. The lowest Ca(OH)2 content was found in the 25GGBS–5LS mix, indicating active pozzolanic reaction. The formation of monocarboaluminate phases in ternary systems further indicated chemical synergy between LS and GGBS. At 28 day, the 25GGBS–5LS mix achieved the highest compressive strength of 51.68 MPa, surpassing the control (50.12 MPa), and maintained superior performance up to 180 day. Flexural strength followed a similar trend, the 25GGBS–5LS mixes reaching the highest flexural strength among all ternary blends. A strong linear correlation was found between compressive and flexural strength (R2 = 0.906). These results demonstrate that the synergistic combination of GGBS and LS not only enhances hydration kinetics but also contributes to superior strength development and improved sustainability in blended cement systems. The 25GGBS–5LS formulation was identified as optimal in balancing early hydration and long-term mechanical performance.

DOI

10.55713/jmmm.v36i1.2394

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