Effect of the incorporation of aggregates with high sulfide content on the mechanical and microstructural properties of concrete with slag cement

ABSTRACT The mineralogical change in the sulfides present in many aggregates can affect their stability, which may undermine the performance of the concrete. This is a complex process and there is limited research in this area. In this study, we examined the influence of aggregates containing a high sulfide content on the performance of concrete containing slag cement. The sulfides present in the aggregates were initially identified and quantified. The changes at the microstructural level of the concrete caused by the sulfide-containing aggregates were then examined. These included volume changes, as well as their effect on the compressive strength and modulus of elasticity. The results show that slag cement does not reduce expansion, and it is this expansion that affects the mechanical properties of concrete.