Suitability of Electric Arc Furnace (Eaf) Slag as Partial Replacement for Cement in Sandcrete Blocks

Abstract

The use of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) Slag which is a by-product solid waste in Steel Production was investigated for use as a partial replacement for cement in sandcrete blocks. The tests carried out on cement and finely ground slag to determine their compositions and physico-chemical properties as well as the evaluation of the results are presented. It was found that the compressive strength of sandcrete blocks ranged from 1.4 - 4.0 N/mm² for 50% - 20% replacement of cement with EAF slag respectively whilst that of standard cement block was 4.5 N/mm². The result of the study shows the possibility of replacing up to 20% of cement with EAF slag in sandcrete blocks without sacrificing the strength significantly. It is therefore believed that the use of the slag in the construction industry shall bring about some economic benefit and as well mitigate the negative impact of this waste on the environment.