Properties of blast-furnace slags containing high amounts of manganese

Abstract

This paper presents results of tests performed to characterize the physical and chemical properties of five blast-furnace slags having MnO content up to 21%. The interactions between ordinary Portland cement or calcium oxide and each slag were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermoanalysis. Mortars and concretes using these slags were cast. When ground to a Blaine surface area of 300 m 2/kg, the slags were utilized in road binders in combination with calcium oxide or Portland cement. When ground to a Blaine surface area of 600 m 2/kg, the slags were introduced into the composition of different concretes instead of fly ash or silica fume. Based on the resulting high strengths, fine grinding of manganese-rich slag for use in concrete appears to be a good way of beneficiation.