Assessment of the ability of MGO based binary binders for the substitution of Portland cement for mortars manufacturing

This article evaluates the ability of a magnesia kiln dust (PC-8) and a commercial calcined MgO (MCB100), combined with ground granulated blastfurnace slag (GGBS), as constituents of binary M-S-H binders. Mortars and pastes were manufactured and their properties were compared to those of Portland Cement (PC). MgO-based mortars showed an increase in setting time and higher fresh consistency. At earlier ages MgO mortars showed lower mechanical properties. At 90 days both MgO-based mortars overcame the PC flexural strength and PC-8 + GGBS also overcame its compressive strength. X-Ray Diffraction and Thermogravimetry tests demonstrated the presence of M-S-H in the pastes.