Influence of Steel Slag Aggregate and Recycled Coarse Aggregate in Sustainable Concrete Industry: A Review

The growing demand for sustainable construction materials, driven by environmental concerns and the depletion of natural resources, is a significant trend. Commonly natural aggregates are used in concrete. The amount and quality of natural aggregate may not be sufficient for building in some places of the world. As a result, alternative sources need to be researched. Current research focuses on using recycled materials instead of conventional concrete components to counteract the growing demand for natural resources. This review paper focuses on the role of steel slag aggregate (SSA) and recycled coarse aggregate (RCA) in concrete, considering different percentages of SSA (ranging from 0 to 50%) and RCA (from 0 to 100%). The review commences by evaluating the properties of SSA and RCA to assess their suitability as concrete aggregates. It then delves into their effects on both fresh and hardened concrete properties, including aspects like particle size distribution, workability, and strength. Through a comparative analysis, the review examines the physical and mechanical properties of these materials, encompassing factors like compressive strength and workability, particle size distribution with the aim of determining their appropriateness for various construction applications. Moreover, the environmental benefits of utilizing SSA and RCA are highlighted, which include reducing the carbon footprint, conserving natural resources, and reducing waste generation. In sum, this review paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the role of SSA and RCA in sustainable construction materials, underscoring their potential advantages at various percentages as a replacement of coarse aggregate.