Work

Improved flowability and strength using carbonated BOF slag and potassium citrate in sustainable LC3 binder

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study proposes a sustainable LC3 binder incorporating calcined low-grade clay, carbonated basic oxygen furnace slag (Cs), and potassium citrate (citrate) as a ternary cementitious system. Cs and citrate replace limestone powder (Ls) and polycarboxylate superplasticizer (SP), respectively. Citrate enhanced flowability while extending the hydration induction period, achieving up to a 9.1% increase in flow. Compared with SP-modified LC3, citrate improved compressive strength by 6.8–11.8%, while Cs incorporation further increased 28-day strength by up to 29.7%. Microstructural analyses revealed reduced porosity, refined pore structure, lower portlandite content, and increased C-S-H formation due to enhanced pozzolanic reactions. Life cycle assessment showed that Cs blends reduced CO 2 emissions and energy consumption by approximately 19%, demonstrating their potential as high-performance, low-carbon binders. • Cs improves hydration, lowering energy use by 19.2 % compared with LC3. • Citrate acts as both a water reducer and activator, enhancing flowability over SP. • Cs and citrate substantially increase 28-day strength by29.7 % and 6.8–11.8 %, respectively.

Source: Construction and Building Materials

DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2026.145232

Authors: Zixing Liu, Yanjie Tang, K. Schollbach, H.J.H. Brouwers

Institutions: Eindhoven University of Technology, Wuhan University of Technology, State Key Laboratory of Silicate Materials for Architecture

Language: English

Topic: Concrete and Cement Materials Research

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,540