1
2
This review investigates the potential and challenges of incorporating different industrial waste materials specifically Fine Steel Slag (FSS) having Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) slags, Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) slags, along with copper slag (CS) and ferronickel slag (FNS) as sustainable alternatives in cement and concrete applications. Steel slags offer not only numerous advantages in terms of reduced emissions of greenhouse gas but also decreases the use of natural aggregates in addition to enhanced mechanical properties. EAF and FSS having high calcium silicate content, exhibit significant cementitious properties that improve compressive and tensile strength in high-strength concrete. In contrast, the reactivity of BOF slag is hindered by higher water absorption and lower cementitious phases, limiting its effectiveness as a binder replacement. Optimal performance depends on replacement ratios tailored to slag type and application, with FSS and EAF slag maintaining or enhancing concrete properties at levels up to 20%. However, excessive replacement, particularly with fine slags, can lead to shrinkage and reduced strength due to high surface area and free CaO content. Additionally, CS enhances mechanical performance and durability, particularly around 30% replacement, while FNS provides notable benefits in resisting sulphate attack and alkali-silica reactivity when finely processed or optimally cured. Despite these advantages, challenges regarding leaching and porosity in slag-utilized concrete persist. Future research should refine processing techniques and develop standardized guidelines for slag application to maximize the environmental and mechanical benefits. The integration of these slags promotes resource conservation and aligns with circular economy principles, enhancing infrastructure resilience and longevity.
This review method began by identifying key industrial slags-steel, copper, and FNS for concrete applications, followed by a literature review and comparative analysis of their mechanical properties, durability, and optimal replacement ratios. Key performance parameters such as compressive, flexural, and shear strength, along with sulfate and chloride resistance, were evaluated against conventional concrete. The method also assessed the environmental impacts of each slag to highlight sustainability benefits. Finally, optimized mix designs and curing practices were recommended to maximize performance and practical feasibility for each slag type in concrete applications.
This review identifies steel slag, EAF slag, copper slag (CS), and ferronickel slag (FNS) as promising sustainable materials in concrete. Optimal replacement levels of steel and EAF slags improve durability and mechanical properties, while CS enhances both strength and durability as an aggregate and SCM. FNS shows late-age reactivity, particularly under steam curing, boosting sulfate resistance and compressive strength at optimal replacements (up to 20%). Together, these by-products offer eco-friendly, high-performance alternatives for concrete, supporting sustainable infrastructure development.
This study offers a novel and deep analysis of waste materials in concrete which explores critical insights into their impacts on mechanical properties, workability, and durability. It further gives an effective idea and innovation in its systematic investigation of how these materials can enhance and compromise concrete performance under certain conditions and replacement levels.
Sustainable concrete, Industrial waste materials, Steel slag, Copper slag, Ferronickel slag
