Study on the mechanical properties of lithium slag recycled fine aggregate concrete

Abstract

To promote the sustainable utilization of industrial solid wastes in concrete applications, this study systematically investigates the combined use of lithium slag (LS) as a cement replacement and recycled fine aggregates (RFA) as a substitute for river sand (RS). Through experimental analysis with a fixed water-cement ratio (0.46), we evaluated the effects of varying LS content (0–40%) and RFA replacement rates (0–30%) on concrete performance. The results indicate that the optimal LS incorporation (20%) enhances compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength by 12.7%, 11.9%, and 9.16%, respectively, while maintaining adequate workability. In contrast, RFA addition caused a linear reduction in mechanical properties, with 30% RFA leading to a 19.07% decrease in compressive strength. However, the addition of LS effectively mitigated the performance losses induced by RFA, providing a compensatory effect. The conversion formulas established between cubic compressive strength and other mechanical parameters demonstrated high correlation coefficients, offering practical guidelines for lithium slag-recycled fine aggregate concrete (LSRFAC) applications. This dual-waste utilization strategy presents an environmentally responsible solution for construction material innovation, addressing both the recycling of industrial byproducts and the conservation of natural resources. Overall, this study provides a sustainable approach to concrete production by reducing environmental burdens and supporting the circular use of industrial and construction waste in structural engineering.