Main contributor to the interaction between triethanolamine and ferronickel slag components and its effect on hydration behavior in ternary blended slag systems

This study examined the effect of triethanolamine (TEA) as a grinding aid on electric furnace ferronickel slag (FNS), with a particular focus on identifying the primary contributor to its chemical enhancement. TEA addition improved FNS fineness, although an excessive dosage (0.5 wt.%) had an adverse effect. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of ground samples revealed the most notable change in Fe 2p binding energy, indicating partial surface interactions with TEA during intensive grinding. Correspondingly, Fe ion concentrations in R³-based solutions increased by more than an order of magnitude, suggesting that these effects were more strongly driven by chemical interaction than by increased fineness. In cement-blended systems, these findings were further supported by substantial strength gains and altered AFm phase evolution. Meanwhile, crystalline Fe- and Mg-bearing phases exhibited limited reactivity even at later stages, indicating that while Fe₂O₃ content is a key factor, Fe mobility also plays a significant role in TEA-induced reactivity enhancement.