Multi‐scale modeling for the prediction of Young's modulus of alkali‐activated slag concrete

Abstract

Alkali‐activated slag is an alternative to ordinary Portland cement that can be used for structural applications. Young's modulus is an important property to predict stress or strains in concrete. However, the fib Model Code 2010 overestimates it for alkali‐activated slag concrete. Multi‐scale models allow the determination of concrete property from the features of the microstructure. In this study, an analytical micromechanics‐based multi‐scale homogenization model is applied to predict Young's modulus of alkali‐activated slag. It is compared to experimental results found in the literature on paste, mortar and concrete. Better predictions of Young's modulus are achieved from multiscale models compared to the fib MC 2010. Accuracy could be enhanced by improving the predictions for the degree of activation of slag for the different mixes.