expert opinion

expert opinion

The Structural and Construction Materials Laboratory at Brawijaya University has been collaborating in joint research with PT Krakatau Semen Indonesia (PT KSI) since 2018. The research aims to understand the characteristics of Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) in terms of strength and other advantages. Our competent research team, consisting of Prof. Dr. Ir. Sri Murni Dewi, MS; Dr. Eng. Ir. Ming Narto Wijaya, MT., M.Sc.; and myself, has proven the quality and excellence of GGBFS material produced by PT KSI.

Based on our research, the application of GGBFS material as a partial replacement for cement with a specific proportion has been proven to yield higher final strength in concrete and mortar compared to regular concrete and mortar after the age of 28 days. This makes it highly suitable for the production of high-quality concrete.

GGBFS material is environmentally friendly, considering the environmental damage caused by the production process of conventional cement materials, which generates environmental damage and produces CO2 emissions that contribute to the greenhouse effect. The use of GGBFS material can help reduce environmental damage by utilizing hazardous waste (B3) to aid in environmental preservation.

Another advantage of GGBFS material is its ability to enhance the durability of concrete/mortar because GGBFS is more resistant to extreme environments such as those containing sulfates and chlorides (coastal areas, etc.) compared to regular cement. This durability translates into cost savings in structural maintenance.

There are many other advantages to GGBFS material, including lower hydration heat, which reduces the occurrence of cracks in mass concrete during the hardening process. Additionally, the use of GGBFS material is suitable for ready-mix companies where the project site is far from the batching plant. The presence of this material in concrete/mortar mixtures delays the setting time slightly, allowing for effective and efficient scheduling of manufacturing and casting. On the other hand, GGBFS material can also be applied to structures that require high initial compressive strength (precast concrete) with the right proportion and water-cement ratio.

GGBFS material produced by PT KSI is made using advanced technology and adheres to high standards, ensuring the quality and reliability of the material. This is evidenced by the export of GGBFS material to several Asian countries and Australia due to increasing demand over time. GGBFS material produced by PT KSI has a very promising future due to its various advantages and environmentally friendly properties. We hope that as technology continues to advance and environmental issues become more critical, GGBFS produced by PT KSI will become more widely known and used by the construction industry for building construction, road infrastructure, bridges, and more. We wish PT Krakatau Semen Indonesia continued success.

 

Malang, April 2023

Dr. Eng. Ir. Lilya Susanti, ST., MT.
Researcher and Lecturer, Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Brawijaya University