Abstract：This study investigates the effects of ferro aluminate cement (FAC) and fly ash (FA) on the physico-mechanical properties of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) -based materials. Macroscopic performance tests and microscopic analyses (XRD, SEM) revealed that incorporating FAC into OPC significantly shortens the setting time, enhances early-age strength, with a 24.8% increase in 7-day compressive strength at 10% FAC content, and effectively improves drying shrinkage resistance. The addition of FA further optimizes shrinkage performance, however, a FA content exceeding 30% leads to a reduction in strength. Microscopic mechanisms indicate that FAC promotes the formation of ettringite and accelerates OPC hydration, while FA consumes Ca(OH)2 through a pozzolanic reaction, increasing C-S-H gel formation. These actions enhance the compactness and durability of the composite system.
2026, Vol. 0 
