Innovative Mix Design and Performance Evaluation of M70–M90 Grade High-Strength Concrete Utilizing GGBS and Silica Fume

Abstract

High-strength concrete (HSC) generally requires a higher cement content, which increases the heat of hydration, raising the risk of thermal cracking and ultimately reducing structural performance. Moreover, using more ordinary Portland cement (OPC) leads to higher CO₂ emissions, posing environmental concerns. To address these issues while maintaining durability, ongoing research is exploring the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) such as ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) and silica fume (SF).
This study focuses on evaluating the strength characteristics of HSC incorporating GGBS and SF. In the experimental program, GGBS and SF were used to partially replace OPC in proportions ranging from 30% to 50%, with the aim of producing M70 to M90 grade concrete. Tests included slump flow measurements, compressive strength at 3, 7, and 28 days, and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) assessments at 28 days.
The results indicated that both GGBS- and SF-based HSC achieved the target high strength, with SF-based mixes demonstrating superior strength performance compared to those incorporating GGBS.