| dc.description.abstract | Compressive strength is the most important mechanical property of concrete, as it
determines the load-carrying capacity and overall performance of structural elements
such as columns, beams, slabs, and foundations. Conventional concrete mainly relies
on natural aggregates to achieve the required compressive strength. However, due to
increasing construction activities, the availability of natural aggregates is gradually
decreasing, and their extraction is causing environmental problems.
Steel-slag concrete is a type of concrete in which steel slag, an industrial by-product
from the steel manufacturing process, is used as a partial or full replacement for natural
aggregates. Steel slag has high hardness, angular particle shape, and rough surface
texture, which can significantly influence the compressive behavior of concrete. These
physical properties improve particle interlocking and enhance the bond between the
cement paste and aggregate, leading to improved compressive strength.
Several experimental studies have shown that concrete containing steel slag can achieve
compressive strength comparable to or higher than conventional concrete, especially at
later curing ages. The higher strength development is often attributed to the dense
packing of slag particles and the presence of reactive compounds in steel slag that may
contribute to secondary hydration reactions. As a result, steel-slag concrete tends to
show improved strength gain over time.
The compressive characteristics of steel-slag concrete are strongly affected by factors
such as mix proportion, water-cement ratio, slag replacement level, curing age, and
specimen size. At lower water-cement ratios, steel-slag concrete generally exhibits
higher compressive strength due to reduced porosity.
Proper mix design and proportioning are necessary to ensure strength, stability, and
durability. Therefore, investigating the compressive characteristics of steel-slag
concrete with different mixing ratios provides valuable information for developing
sustainable and high-performance concrete while reducing dependence on natural
aggregates and promoting industrial waste utilization | en_US |
