Applicability of ferrosilicon slag for a cementitious binder in concrete mix

Abstract

This study concerns ferrosilicon slag (FS), a by-product of silicon metal or ferrosilicon, to use for cementitious binder considering similarity with silica fume for its fundamental characteristics enhancing pozzolanic reactivity of a concrete. The nature of silica agglomerate formation of FS was identified, then the hydraulic characteristics of FS were investigated by XRD, SEM, and TG analysis, where quantitative information on Ca(OH)2 and C–S–H gel was acquired. Simultaneously, physical properties and durability were evaluated to ensure concrete quality. As a result, FS showed enhanced pozzolanic reactivity and dense pore structure, thus showed compatible strength development: presumably leading to higher durability.