Concretes made of EAF slag and AOD slag aggregates from stainless steel process: Mechanical properties and durability

• EAF and AOD slag aggregates are more dense but more porous than natural aggregates.
• Very few mineral phases can show expansive reaction in EAF and AOD slag aggregates.
• The use of EAF and AOD slag aggregates improves concrete mechanical properties.
• Concretes made of EAF and AOD slag aggregates show a slightly but limited expansion.

The aim of this study is to investigate the opportunity using EAF and AOD slags aggregates in concrete. First, physicochemical and mineralogical properties of these stainless steel slag aggregates are determined. Second, the silico-calcareous aggregates of reference concretes are replaced by each of these steel slag aggregates in different proportions. The results show a slight improvement of the mechanical properties for concretes made of stainless steel slag aggregates. The use of EAF and AOD slag aggregates can slightly decrease concrete durability-related properties and increase linear expansion. But these characteristics fit the standards requested for construction use.