Investigation of Steel Slag Specific Gravity and Its Suitability for Engineering Applications

Abstract

Steel slag is a by-product of steel manufacturing that is increasingly being considered for reuse in civil engineering because of its dense and durable nature. However, before it can be incorporated into engineering works, its basic physical properties need to be established. The present study investigates the specific gravity of steel slag and discusses its suitability for selected civil engineering applications. Steel slag obtained from a steel casting industry was prepared and tested in the laboratory using a pycnometer in accordance with IS 2720 (Part III):1980. The measured specific gravity of the steel slag was 3.597, which is considerably higher than that of the natural soil used in the study, for which a value of 2.648 was obtained. The higher specific gravity indicates the relatively dense nature of the slag particles and can influence the density, void ratio and compaction characteristics of soil–slag mixtures. The study also considers the use of steel slag as an amendment in soil-based engineering applications, particularly where improved physical and mechanical behavior is required. The findings suggest that specific gravity is an important parameter for assessing the behavior of steel slag and for carrying out subsequent geotechnical calculations. Although the experimental result indicates promising engineering characteristics, further evaluation of compaction, shear strength, permeability, durability and environmental behavior is necessary before recommending steel slag for a particular field application. Overall, the study supports the beneficial reuse of steel slag as an alternative engineering material.