Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag
Ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBFS) is a by-product of iron and steel-making obtained by quenching molten iron slag from a blast furnace in water or steam. Used to increase the strength of concrete and used to improve workability of fresh concrete and reduce water demand, shrinkage and permeability of the finished product.
Properties
Where it comes from? By-product of ironmaking process that would otherwise go to landfill
Final appearance of concrete Generally lighter
Compatible with admixtures? Yes
Need to cure? Yes
Sulfate Protection? ✓✓
More cohesive? ✓
Applications
  • Ready-mix concrete
  • Concrete block & pipe
  • Cement manufacture
  • Specialty applications
Sustainability

Making cement is energy intensive, generating up to 176 kg CO2 for each tonne of concrete manufactured. Because Ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS or GGBFS) is a lower carbon building material, it's considerably more environmentally friendly. The reduction of in greenhouse gas emission can be as high as 45%, depending on the mix and application. GGBFS has less embodied carbon allowing you to meet increasingly tough sustainability requirements. It's the product you need to improve the built environment whilst lessening your impact on the natural one.

Sustainability is one of the factors driving the spread of GGBFS across the UAE following the Dubai Green Buildings Regulations (DM Circular no. 198) introduced back in 2010 creating a health-friendly and sustainable environmental development and protection.

Workability

GGBS are great to work with. You’ll find them easier to handle, pump and place with precision – even in adverse weather conditions. And their chemical composition reduces the risk of problems and unwanted chemical reactions.

Improved handling
• Less water required for a given workability
• Better pumping properties due to increased cohesion of the mix
• Easier to compact

Chemical features
• Less free lime content reduces permeability and promotes long term strength
• Reduced alkalinity of concrete minimises risk of alkali-silica reaction
• Lower heat of hydration reduces risk of early-age thermal cracking

Enhanced working window
• Longer setting time means more time for getting the right finish
• Helps you avoid cold joints, a major benefit for large or mass concrete pours