Vol. 25, No. 1 (2026), Mat26686 https://doi.org/10.24275/rmiq/Mat26686

Towards low-carbon cement: evaluating ferrochrome and steel slags as supplementary cementitious materials

 

Authors

M. Hoxhaj, S. Vishkulli, I. Boci, S. Vito, Xh. Hyseni

Abstract

With a growing focus on decarbonizing construction, alternative binders from industrial waste offer sustainable solutions with significant environmental and economic benefits. This study investigates the potential of ferrochrome and steel slags, byproducts of Albania’s metallurgical sector, as partial cement replacements. Mortar samples with 30% slag substitution were tested for physical and mechanical properties. At 28 days, the slag mixtures retained 62.3% (black), 68.6% (Fe–Cr), and 87.3% (white) of the reference compressive strength (CEM I 42.5R). Setting times increased compared to the control, with initial setting extending from 110 min (CEM I) to 140-250 min and final setting from 230 min to 250-350 min depending on slag type. Water demand rose from 126ml (CEM I) to 144-189 ml for slag-containing mixes. Despite reduced early strength, white steel slag demonstrated pozzolanic activity indicating potential for cementitious applications, whereas black and Fe-Cr slags showed limited reactivity, suggesting the need for activation or further optimization to improve their performance. Overall, the findings support the technical feasibility of incorporating industrial slags into eco-efficient cement formulations.

Keywords

eco-efficient cement, industrial waste, ferro-chrome slag, steel slag, compressive strength.

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