Purpose <p>The environmental burden of traditional Portland cement has driven interest in eco-friendly alternatives like the super-sulfate binder (GEC). However, GEC’s low efficiency limits its practical use. This study investigates the enhancement of GEC stabilization efficiency through nano-modification and chemical-activation.</p> Methods <p>The GEC was modified using chemical activators (NaOH (SH), Na₂SiO₃ (SM), and Na₂SO₄ (SS)) and nano-modifiers (nano-SiO₂ (NS), nano-MgO (NM), and nano-Al₂O₃ (NA)) in single and composite forms. Its stabilization efficiency and micro-mechanisms were evaluated through unconfined compressive strength, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analyses.</p> Results <p>Both chemical activation or nano-modification individually enhanced the stabilization efficiency of GEC. However, a composite approach proved more effective. Among the single methods, the optimal formulations were an SS/SH at a 7:3 mass ratio and an NS/NA at a 5:5 mass ratio. For the combined system, the highest efficiency was achieved with a GEC: SS/SH: NS/NA mass ratio of 100:3:5. Microstructural analysis revealed that this enhanced efficiency is attributed to the increase formation of primary hydration products, namely C-S-H gel and ettringite (AFt), thereby elucidating the underlying stabilization mechanisms.</p> Conclusions <p>Nano-modification and chemical-activation can improve the stabilization efficiency and contribute to the wide application of super-sulfate binder in DS stabilization.</p>