Title: Use of Concrete Containing Slag Cement in Transportation Structures in Virginia

Author(s): C. Ozyildirim

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 263

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 1-12

Keywords: bridge; durability; mass concrete; pavement; permeability; slag; slag cement; strength; temperature control.

DOI: 10.14359/51663249

Date: 10/1/2009

Abstract:
Slag cement was introduced to Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in the early 1980s. Laboratory investigations showed that slag cements can be used as an alternative to conventional portland cement concretes in replacement rates up to 50% for pavements and bridge structures. Concrete containing slag cement had lower permeability than the conventional portland cement concrete. Since the mid 1980s, slag cement has been successfully used by VDOT in bridge structures and pavements to reduce permeability and improve the durability of concrete. In large footings, slag cement has been used at a replacement rate of 75% to control the temperature rise and to reduce permeability. Currently, slag cement is used in high-performance concretes to obtain high compressive strength and low permeability. Slag cement is also used in ternary blends with portland cement and fly ash or silica fume to lower permeability, improve durability, and obtain the desired early strengths.