Optimizing Exposure Performance for AACM-based Building and Paving Blocks

This article addresses the importance and period of controlled curing conditions that should be considered in exposure performance to remove the barriers to the use of one-part AACM (alkali-activated cement materials) as a potentially lower carbon binder in building and paving blocks. A key challenge in implementing this approach is studying AACM-based blocks in controlled and uncontrolled curing processes. Material Evolution Ltd. is an innovative company that is developing one-part AACMs as a low-emission substitute for cement for producing building and paving blocks and is scientifically involved in removing the barriers that exist in the broad uptake of this material in construction. The work has shown that controlled curing conditions in the first 24 hours of curing can be crucial to producing blocks without efflorescence.