Displaying items by tag: study

China: A new study from Hong Kong Polytechnic University showcases sustainable cement production methods, focusing on low-clinker cements and alternative solutions for incinerator fly ash (IFA). The research demonstrates that using carbonated-washed IFA mixed with slag, coal fly ash, or metakaolin can replace 60% of Portland cement, forming ternary blended cement. This approach reportedly reduces the carbon footprint of cement production.

The study found that slag was the most effective,improving pore structure and increasing ettringite and hemicarboaluminate formation with a blend of 40% slag and 20% IFA. It achieved 90% of the compressive strength of pure Portland cement after 90 days.

The researchers said "This study demonstrated the promising potential of the blended cements to simultaneously divert IFA from landfills and reduce the clinker content of cement."

Australia: Australian Steel Mill Services (ASMS) and the University of Wollongong have launched an investigation into the possible industrial uses of steel furnace slag (SFS) at the Steel Research Hub in Wollongong, New South Wales. ASMS says that SFS has historically had a lower recyclability than ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) because of its behaviour when hydrated, which potentially includes expanding. The research team believes that SFS might be a possible ingredient for construction materials, including paving slabs. Tests will involve mixtures of SFS with cement, lime, lignosulphonate, coal wash and plastics.

US: Researchers from the University of Southern Florida (USF) testing the resistance to deterioration of cements containing between 30% and 70% of slags of various aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃) and magnesium oxide (MgO) contents when exposed to sulphates have discovered a general decrease in resistance with increased Al₂O₃ content. Real Estate Weekly News has reported that increased MgO was found to increase resistance, especially at 30% slag replacement.