A Multi-Criteria Evaluation of Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Cement Composites Incorporating Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS), Halloysite Nanotubes, and Silica Fume: An Experimental Study

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Shahid Rajaee Teacher Training University

10.22124/jcr.2026.32366.1727

Abstract

The development of multifunctional concrete with structural health monitoring capabilities requires understanding the complex interactions between various additives. This study investigates the simultaneous effects of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), silica fume (SF), and water-to-binder ratio (W/B) on the mechanical and electrical properties of cementitious composites. The Taguchi experimental design method with an L₈ orthogonal array was employed. Four factors at two levels were examined: GGBFS (10 and 20%), HNTs (5 and 10%), SF (0 and 7%), and W/B (0.35 and 0.40). Compressive strength was measured at 7, 28, 90, 180, and 360 days, while electrical resistivity was measured at 28, 90, 180, and 360 days. Results indicated that SF, with a 42% contribution, was the most influential factor in increasing electrical resistivity, whereas GGBFS exhibited an inverse effect. Regarding mechanical properties, HNTs dominated at early ages (38% contribution at 7 days), while GGBFS prevailed at later ages (35% contribution at 180 days). The optimal mixture comprising 10% GGBFS, 5% HNT, 7% SF, and W/B=0.35 was identified as the balance point between mechanical and electrical properties.

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Main Subjects

Concrete Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 23 February 2026

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