Energy optimizing furnace slag as a potential supplementary cementitious material for cement

Steel smelting technology in a furnace with optimized energy consumption (Energy Optimizing Furnace, EOF) was developed as an alternative to the classic open-hearth process. Despite being mineralogically rich, the EOF slag is almost untouched and has not been explored for a significant scope of recyclability. Herein the mineralogy and microstructure of EOF slag have been studied with different sophisticated analytical techniques including optical polarizing microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Different compositions of blended cement have been made by using the processed and ground EOF slag, and different performance parameters of the developed cement have been evaluated. The reactivity of the EOF slag in cement hydration has been analyzed by correlating the quantitative XRD data, Heat of Hydration of the developed cement, and derived physical parameters. It has been found that ground EOF slag (GEOFS) is a potential supplementary material for blended cement with the 2.5 to 7.5 % replacement of ground granulated blast furnace slag. This can both expand the possibilities of industrial waste utilization and help reduce the clinker factor in cement for the reduction of CO₂ emissions during its production.