Developing conductive concrete containing wire rope and steel powder wastes for route deicing

Abstract

The principle aim of using electrically conductive concrete is route deicing. During the last decades, using materials with multi-functional properties gains much attention in technological advances and provide innovations over the application of conventional materials. In this regard, the application of the electrically conductive components for deicing pavements and rapid melting of the snow is widely studied. The main purpose of this study is the use of steel wire rope and steel powder wastes in the concrete matrix to first, improve conductive and mechanical properties of the conductive concrete and second, solve environmental issues associated with recycling and reusing these type of wastes. Sixteen specimens with different proportions of the conductive materials are prepared and tested. The results show that specimen F3.0P0 is the best mix proportion with respect to significant compressive strength and the lowest electrical resistivity. The results demonstrate that specimen F3.0P5.8 is the perfect combination of steel powder and steel wire rope wastes with optimal proportions would be achieved the highest compressive strength and the lowest electrical resistivity, which would be an ideal condition for electrically conductive concrete.