Production of concretes using slag aggregates: Contribution of increasing the durability and sustainability of constructions

Abstract

The main by-product of the steel industry is slag. This paper investigates the use of slag aggregates of electric arc furnace (EAFS) and ladle furnace slag (LFS) in replacement of fine and coarse conventional limestone aggregates, for the production of concrete mixtures of C25/30 and C30/37 strength classes (compressive strength of 3625 psi and 4350 psi according to ACI). Slag aggregates substitute conventional aggregates at 30% and 50% by volume. All produced concretes were subjected to tests for estimating compressive and tensile strength, water absorption, carbonation resistance, chloride penetration resistance and frost resistance. The results show that slag aggregates can be used to produce conventional concretes with enhanced mechanical and durability characteristics. This results in environmentally friendly and durable mixtures.