Effect of waste copper slag as a substitute in cement and concrete-a review

Abstract

Copper slag is a by-product of the copper ore purification process that is produced at various stages. Copper slag is widely utilized as an abrasive, as well as a construction ingredient in the manufacturing of concrete and paving materials. Despite, the giant quantities of waste copper slag results in landfilling issues. Landfilling of waste copper slag convert the land into unfertile soil and as result creates environmental problems. Therefore, the waste copper slag may be used as an alternative material in producing sustainable construction materials that lead to both economical and environmental benefits. Most of the studies observed that up to 15% by using the weight of copper slag as Portland cement replacement improves in stress due to declining capillary porosity related to hydrated lime and 40–50% and 40–60% (by weight of sand) of copper slag can be used as a substitute for fine aggregates and coarse combination concrete is improvement in strength. This paper summarizes the use of waste copper slag in producing concrete as aggregate and as a partial replacement to cement. Furthermore, the effect of waste copper slag on the mechanical, durability and the effect of elevated temperatures on the properties of concrete are presented.