The evolution of interfacial transition zone in alkali-activated fly ash-slag concrete

This paper investigates the mechanisms of microstructure evolution of interfacial transition zone (ITZ) in alkali-activated fly ash-slag (AAFS) concrete using scanning electron microscope. Results indicate that the formation of original ITZ depends on the so-called “wall effect”, leading to a deficit of large grains and a higher effective alkaline activator/precursor ratio compared to paste matrix. The alkaline reaction process is...