Alkali-activated fly ashes: Influence of curing conditions on mechanical strength

Abstract

Alkaline activation of fly ashes is a procedure that enables an alternative binder which has been receiving much interest by several research groups particularly on the manufacturing of mortars and concretes. The properties of the materials that are developed during the alkaline activation are influenced by the curing conditions (temperature and relative humidity). Another relevant facet related to the curing procedures is the possibility of carbonation occur, which may have an impact on the mechanical strength of the alkaline cements. In this research, several sets of curing conditions were tested to understand which one results in a higher strength and reveals carbonation. Uniaxial compressive strength tests were conducted to assess mechanical behavior. The outcome suggests that higher temperature and low relative humidity yields higher mechanical strength.