CRITERIA FOR THE USE OF STEEL SLAG AGGREGATES IN CONCRETE

Abstract

The successful incorporation of steel slag as aggregates in construction products requires the consideration of certain issues. Firstly, as steel slag is an industrial by- product until recently disposed in landfills, the question is whether it is suitable for use in construction. Then the technical characteristics of the material are examined because due to its physicochemical properties steel slag requires special care, but can also provide maximum value if used for specific applications. The utilisation of a by-product in suitable applications –mainly where it is advantageous compared to traditional materials, but also where it is most economical– can give a higher added value to the product. Finally, there are a number of economy-related parameters that allow for a new product to enter the construction market like the situation of the local aggregate market or the need to communicate the efficiency of a new product through demonstration projects. Through all the above considerations and knowledge through practice we look at the way steel slag aggregates enter the con- struction market in Greece.