Analysis of the influence of mechanical properties of cementitious composites using submerged arc welding (SAW) slag recycled aggregate

Abstract

Concern about the environment and the scarcity of natural resources has led to the search for more sustainable alternatives that minimize the environmental impact of all segments of society. Solid waste recycling has been presented as a good alternative to reduce the impacts generated by the disorderly use of raw materials and the reduction of disposal areas, caused by the large volume of waste disposal generated throughout the year throughout the world. In this context, waste from industries in Brazil is included, especially submerged arc welding (SAW) slag. Waste from these activities is generally solid, with dense materials and variable characteristics in terms of their chemical composition, as they contain different types of elements with a specific function as a load element. These characteristics often present an obstacle to being reused in new materials (flows). Among the various waste generated by various industries, we can mention submerged arc welding (SAW) slag, as being one of the greatest potentials for use, due to often having knowledge of its basic characteristics and properties and its lower degree of contamination by other materials, when compared to other waste, such as construction waste. The objective of this research is to evaluate the mechanical performance characteristics of cementitious matrices made with submerged arc welding (SAW) slag residue and their possible use on a large scale. Cementitious matrices for mortars were manufactured by replacing 0%, 25%, 50% and 75% of the natural fine aggregate with submerged arc welding (SAW) slag residue and a water/cement ratio of 0.48. Through the compressive and tensile strength test, it was observed after 28 days that the cement matrices with replacements obtained increases in the mechanical properties of compressive and tensile strength, compared to the reference cement matrix.