Influence of copper slag admixture in concrete durability properties

Abstract

The concern with the serious problem of waste generation has led to a higher social consciousness of the need of further studies aiming to improve the production lifecycle and proper disposal of waste. In this context, recycling is a very important alternative. This research assesses the possibility of recycling copper slag, considering the feasibility of using it as an admixture to concrete. The physical, chemical and mineralogical characterization of cooper slag, as well as the pozzolanic activity of cooper slag were determined. An environmental risk assessment (leaching and solubilization testes) showed that copper slag does not pose any risks to human health or to the environment, thus being classified as non-innert. This work studies the influence of copeer slag admixture on the durability properties of concrete (water absorption by immersion, water absorption by capillary suction, carbonation rate and sulfate attack resistance). The analysis results showed that the use of 20% of copper slag admixture improves the performance of the concrete properties that were assessed.