Clinker-free CO2 cured steel slag based binder: Optimal conditions and potential applications

• DOI: 10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2019.03.169
• Publication Date: 2019-03-20T15:02:17Z
• Authors: P.S. Humbert; J.P. Castro-Gomes; H. Savastano
• Keywords: Slag (welding); Fineness; Environmentally Friendly

Abstract Alternative construction materials have been considered to be a potential solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, water and energy consumption. Moreover, green materials contribute for a sustainable development of the construction industry. Steel slag-based carbon dioxide cured binders are clinker-free construction materials which, besides enriching and confining industrial waste, permanently store carbon dioxide in its matrix. Optimal reaction conditions for steel-slag carbon dioxide cured binders were determined by manipulating slag fineness, water content, compacting pressure, CO2 partial pressure, chamber temperature and carbonation duration achieving more than 150 MPa of compressive strength. A comparison with carbon dioxide cured Portland cement indicated that the steel slag-based binder has 76% higher compressive strength under the same conditions. Compressive strength results indicate that steel slag carbon dioxide cured binder is a potential Portland cement substitute for construction material applications due to its efficiency and environmental friendly characteristics.