Durability of concrete with electric arc furnace slag aggregate

The durability of concrete mixes with electric arc furnace (EAF) slag as aggregate is studied, comparing these mixes to those with limestone and barite aggregates used as references for structural and heavyweight applications, respectively. Various tests were conducted, including compressive strength, elastic modulus, water penetration under pressure, wet-dry cycles, freeze-thaw cycles, and leaching tests, to assess the impact of the EAF slag on concrete performance. Results indicate that the mixes with EAF slag tend to present a higher depth of water penetration under pressure, a slightly higher expansion, and increased carbonation depth while maintaining similar compressive strength compared to the reference limestone mixes. Attention is required regarding the formation of stain points on the surface of concrete with EAF slag when subjected to wet-dry cycling. The findings suggest that the use of EAF slag can be viable for enhancing concrete properties while addressing environmental concerns related to waste from steel production.