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Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of combination of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) with low pozzolanic activity index and nanosilica as a highly reactive pozzolan on different properties of cement mortar applicable for architectural purposes. The properties studied include mechanical performances (in terms of compressive and flexural strengths), durability (by electrical resistivity, water absorption, and chloride penetration tests), and microstructural characteristics (through thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction test, and scanning electron microscopy). The results revealed that the addition of nanosilica could compensate for mechanical strength and durability losses brought about through the utilization of GGBFS with low pozzolanic performance. Considering compressive and flexural strengths, the optimal percentage of nanosilica was 1%; however, the employment of 2% nanosilica performed more efficient concerning durability characteristics. Moreover, synergistic effect of the application of ternary cementitious blends of low pozzolanic activity GGBFS and nanosilica was noticed in the results of compression, electrical resistivity, and rapid chloride penetration tests.