Copper slag
- Copper slag is a by-product of copper extraction by smelting. During smelting, impurities become slag which floats on the molten metal. Slag that is quenched in water produces angular granules which are disposed of as waste.
- Copper slag is a type of dense, hard, and wear-resistant glass phase, which can be applied in the construction industry as a building foundation, subgrade material, Portland cement additive, sandblasting de-rusting material, and microcrystalline glass.
- Copper slag is a byproduct obtained during the smelting and refining of copper. It has various applications and Advantages.
| S.No | List of Parameters | Result in (%) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Silicon Dioxide | SiO2 | 30 – 40 % |
| 2 | Iron Oxide | Fe2O3 | 35-45 % |
| 3 | Alumina Oxide | Al2O3 | 3 – 10 % |
| 4 | Calcium Oxide | CaO | 1 – 5 % |
| 5 | Magnesium Oxide | MgO | 1 – 5 % |
| 6 | Copper | Cu | 0.5 – 1.5 % |
| 7 | Sulfur | S | 1 % |
| 9 | Appearance | Black, glassy granules | |
| 10 | Particle Size | Mille Meter | 0.5 mm to 5 mm |
| 11 | Bulk Density | kg/m3 | 2.5 to 3.5 g/cm3 |
| 12 | Hardness | Mohs scale | 6 to 7 |
Mechanical Properties:
- Compressive Strength: Suitable for concrete and road construction applications.
- Hardness: Ensures effective abrasive blasting performance.
- Durability: High resistance to wear and tear.
Specific Applications and Their Specifications:
1. Abrasive Blasting:
Particle Size Distribution: 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm for optimal abrasive performance.
Hardness: Mohs scale of 6-7 to ensure effective cleaning.
Free Silica: Less than 0.1% to minimize health hazards.
Used: Used as a blasting medium for cleaning metal surfaces.
2. Cement and Concrete:
Fineness: Blaine specific surface area of 350-450 m2/kg for better reactivity.
Pozzolanic Activity Index: Should meet ASTM C618 standards.Water Absorption: Less than 1% to ensure durability.
Used: Enhances the strength and durability of concrete.
3. Road Construction:
Gradation: As per local standards, typically meeting ASTM D1241.
Aggregate Impact Value: Should be less than 30% to ensure strength and durability.
Los Angeles Abrasion Value: Less than 40% to ensure good wearing resistance.
Used: Used as a base layer material for roads.
4. Landscaping and Decorative:
Particle Size: 5 mm to 10 mm for decorative aggregates.
Color: Uniform black color preferred for aesthetic appeal.
Shape: Angular granules for better interlocking and stability.
Used: Employed for decorative purposes in gardens and landscapes.
5. Marine Structures:
Bulk Density: 2.8 to 3.0 g/cm3 for stability in marine environments.
Corrosion Resistance: Low copper content to prevent leaching.
Environmental Compliance: Must meet local environmental regulations for use in marine construction.
Used: Provides stability and protection against erosion.
Benefits of Using Copper Slag:
- Cost-Effective: Utilizes a waste product, reducing raw material costs.
- Environmental Sustainability: Reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills.
- Performance Enhancements: Improves the properties of the end products.
Images for Reference:
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- (a) Copper Slag
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- Copper Slag (2)
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- Copper Slag (3)
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- Copper Slag
Application of Copper Slag:
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- (a) Abrasive Use
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- (b) Shipping Abrasive
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- (c) Construction Road
Packing Available
