The setting time of a clay slag geopolymer matrix: the influence of blast furnace slag addition and the mixing method
Blast furnace slag from the old iron production was transformed into solids using the geopolymer technology. This type of additive was not only encapsulated in inorganic polymer netting, but it was also chemically bonded into the forming three dimensional (3D) net. Consequently, blast furnace slag influences the setting time of the geopolymer mixture, and so does the mixing method. The obtained inorganic polycondensed materials were very hard and compact; by modifying the clay/slag ratio, it was possible to change the setting time easily. This phenomenon could be exploited for quick emergency repairs or, conversely, to prolong the workability and extend the setting period if necessary.