Hydration of Ternary Blends Containing Steel Slag and Limestone by Considering the Curing Temperature Effect

The effect of the curing temperature on the hydration ternary blended cement based on limestone and processed steel slag was examined by measuring the degree of hydration, Apparent activation energy (Ea), and heat of hydration at three different curing temperatures 25, 45, and 65 ˚C. Determining the progress of hydration was done by measuring the degree of hydration and using the non-evaporable water (Wn) measurement technique. An increase in temperature accelerates the hydration process and as a result, increases the Wn at different times.  At the early stages of hydration, the degree of hydration increases with temperature. However, over time, the effect of curing temperature decreases and approaches zero. The activation energy was determined using the Arrhenius equation. Apparent activation energy (Ea) increases by replacing cement with steel slag and limestone. Measuring the heat of hydration with a calorimeter by solution method at different times (1, 3, 7, 28, 56, and 84 days) and different temperatures. The heat of hydration is reduced by replacing cement with steel slag and limestone, which is related to the dilution effect. As the curing temperature increases, the heat of Hydration also increases.