Impact of Engineered Particle Size Distribution of Ordinary Portland Cement on Slag Supplemented Cement: A Comparative Performance Analysis With Commercial Portland Slag Cement.

Abstract

This study explores the critical interplay between particle size distribution (PSD) and Bogue's compounds, highlighting their essential roles in enhancing the early strength of cement while ensuring sustainability. The research explores experimental procedures by subjecting commercial ordinary Portland cement (C-OPC) to a grinding process, resulting in a specific fineness of 5390 cm²/g, referred to as the "stimulator (S)". Blending this stimulator with standard C-OPC at a precisely calibrated 45% weight ratio (referred to as 'S45') demonstrates a refined approach to optimizing the PSD of the mixture. The results confirm the superior properties of the resulting slag cement blend, with engineered PSD serving as the central driver of these improvements. To broaden the study's scope, ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) is introduced as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) and strategically combined with S45 in varying proportions. This systematic approach shows that the optimized blend of S45 and GGBFS outperforms commercial Portland slag cement (Com-PSC) and ushers in a new paradigm in cement formulation using SCMs. The findings underscore the significance of PSD in enhancing both the initial and long-term compressive strength of cement, with performance improvements evaluated over a period of up to 365 days. Importantly, the optimized approach enables the production of more sustainable cement without increasing production costs. This not only reduces the carbon footprint but also promotes a safer and more environmentally friendly industry. The research highlights a practical pathway for cement manufacturers to enhance the performance of slag cement, though the quality of slag remains dependent on its source. Future research aimed at developing comprehensive guidelines will provide valuable insights to further advance sustainable cement production.