Cement-based solidification for the safe disposal of blasted copper slag

Abstract

This paper describes an investigation of cement-based solidification/stabilization process for the safe disposal of blasted copper slag. The treatments evaluated were based on ordinary Portland cement (OPC). Mortar specimens with ground copper slag ranging from 0% to 10% by weight of cement were tested for whole block and crushed block leachability, compressive strength and hydration. The results indicated that the leaching of selected heavy metal ions from the cement matrix was low and did not exceed the Malaysian Environmental Quality Act. Addition of copper slag to cement increased initial and final setting times. The primary hydration process was the OPC hydration. The strength of the copper slag mortar was generally lower than that of the control mortar and the amount of ground copper slag to replace cement for optimum strength was about 5%.