Investigation of tensile strength performance of green concrete incorporating steel slag

Abstract

This study examined the compressive and tensile strength performance of steel slag-containing concrete composites in a sulphate environment. Steel slag sourced locally was mechanically crushed and sieved into aggregates ranging in size from 20 mm to 1 mm. In accordance with BS 882:1992, the physical properties of the aggregate specimens (steel slag and granite) were evaluated in the laboratory, as well as the fresh and hardened concrete properties. Using 0–10 % steel slag replacement at day 28, 20 N/mm2 desire strength was achieved. The percentage strength of the samples improved when steel slag content ranged from 0 to 20 % after 28 days of water curing. However, it declined when the slag replacement reached 30–50 % in Na2So4 concentration. The compressive strength of the concrete, when mixed with 30–50 % steel slag and exposed to a MgSo4 solution, exhibited a decrease in comparison to the concrete containing 0–10 % steel slag. The experimental findings revealed that 10 %–20 % steel slags replacement is sufficient for concrete work in a sulphate climate that is aggressive. In addition, for improved compressive and tensile performance, 40 % steel slag replacement was found to be optimal in concrete. Similarly, natural coarse aggregate replacement with slag in concrete for healthier sulphate attack resistance was found to be 20 % minimum and drop beyond 40 %. Also, properties of fresh concrete decrease at 0.55 w/c.