Caracterização e uso da escória de aciaria

Due to the large volume produced, industrial co-products often present storage and disposal problems. However, compared to traditional raw materials, these co-products can offer a cheaper alternative with better characteristics for application in the civil and agricultural industries, among others, in addition to providing an adequate destination for these materials. Steel slag is a byproduct generated during the steel manufacturing process and its application is limited due to its chemical characteristics that result in expansion. These materials are generally initially stored in steel mill yards, without a specific destination. Steel slag tends to present instability and expansive characteristics, which restricts its use in other sectors. Evaluating the use of steel slag involves a crucial consideration: the amount of free calcium oxide and magnesium oxide present in the material. According to the technical literature, these compounds play a fundamental role in the expansive properties of slag, making it essential to accurately measure their levels before use. After curing, steel slag finds application in several sectors, including the cement industry, paving, civil construction, agriculture and railways; The use of steel slag as a co-product offers environmental benefits by avoiding disposal in landfills, contributing to the conservation of natural resources, in addition to creating opportunities for application in various industrial sectors. Based on this context, this work provides an assessment of the main properties and characteristics of steel slag, in addition to highlighting the main possibilities for using this co-product. Potential alternatives and applications will be explored to maximize their use and contribute to more efficient management of this steelmaking co-product.