Surface modification of fly ashes with carbide slag and its effect on compressive strength and autogenous shrinkage of blended cement pastes

Surfaces of grade III fly ashes were modified through mixing with carbide slag and calcining at 850 C for 1 h. Mineralogical compositions and surface morphology of fly ashes before and after modification were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Effect of surface-modified fly ashes on compressive strength and autogenous shrinkage of blended cement pastes was investigated. Microstructures of cement pastes were examined by backscattered electron (BSE) imaging and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The experimental results showed that β-C ₂S was formed on the surfaces of fly ashes after modification. Hydration of β-C₂S on the surface-modified fly ashes densified interface zone and enhanced bond strength between particles of fly ashes and hydrated clinkers. In addition, surface modification of fly ashes tended to decrease total porosity and 10-50 nm pores of cement pastes. Surface modification of fly ashes increased compressive strength and reduced autogenous shrinkage of cement pastes.