Influence of using slag cement on the microstructure and durability related properties of cement grouts for micropiles

Today, the use of micropiles for different applications has become very common. In Spain, the cement grouts for micropiles are prepared using ordinary Portland cement and w:c ratio 0.5, although the micropiles standards do not restrict the cement type to use, provided that it reaches a certain compressive strength. In this study, the influence of using slag cement on the microstructure and durability related properties of cement grouts for micropiles have been studied until 90 hardening days, compared to an ordinary Portland cement. Finally, slag cement grouts showed good service properties, better than ordinary Portland cement ones.

This work has been financially supported by the Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación of Spain though projects BIA2010-20548 and BIA2011-25721. J.M. Ortega is indebted to the Ministerio de Educación of Spain for a fellowship of the "Formación Personal Investigador (FPI)" programme (reference BES-2008-002650).