Comprehensive Characterization of Ferrochrome Slag and Ferrochrome Ash as Sustainable Materials in Construction

Abstract

Ferrochrome slag (FCS) and ferrochrome ash (FCA) are by-products generated during the production of ferrochrome alloy in the ferrochrome industry. The use of these by-products as construction materials appears to be an innovative strategy that could provide numerous environmental and socio-economic benefits. However, the residual chromium present in ferrochrome by-products may have some negative effects on the surrounding environment also. In a nutshell, this study provides a thorough and critical examination of ferrochrome slag and ferrochrome ash’s suitability for construction, as well as a list of the major shortcomings that must be addressed to accomplish construction sustainability. A detailed summary of the physical, chemical, and mechanical characteristics of ferrochrome slag and ferrochrome ash was presented in the study. Ferrochrome slag from previous studies is said to exhibit better mechanical properties compared to conventional coarse aggregates which contributed to better mechanical properties of concrete. The application of ferrochrome slag as a substitute for natural sand, on the other hand, is considered to have a detrimental impact. As a reason, further research is necessary to determine the impact of replacing conventional fine aggregate with ferrochrome slag on the various mechanical and durability properties of concrete. Ferrochrome ash from previous studies can be used as a partial replacement for cement and unlike FCS, FCA is nonhazardous since no residual chromium traces were present in FCA. Furthermore, the protracted safety and effect on the surrounding environment of ferrochrome slag containing concrete in a variety of exposure conditions have to be fully examined in the near future.