Enhancing the Strength of Concrete Using Ultra Fine Slag

Abstract

Concrete is a composite construction material made primarily with aggregates, cement and water. There are many formulations of concrete, which provide varied properties and concrete is the most used man-made product in the world. Concrete is widely used for making architectural structures, foundations, pavements, etc. Famous concrete structures include Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest building), Hoover Dam and the Panama Canal. Concrete technology was known by Ancient Romans and was widely used within the Roman Empire. Colosseum is largely built of concrete and the concrete dome of the Pantheon is the world’s largest. After the Empire passed, use of concrete became scare until the technology was re-pioneered in the mid-18th century. There are inorganic materials that also have pozzolanic or hydraulic properties. Fine-grained materials are added to the concrete mix to improve the properties of concrete (mineral admixtures), or as a replacement for Portland cement.