Copper Slag as Aggregate in a Sustainable Solution for Basic Road Pavements
Keywords:
Copper slag, Surface Treatments, SustainabilityAbstract
Copper slag is one of the main residues obtained from the pyrometallurgical process applied to copper concentrates. This industrial waste is considered an environmental liability, typically remaining stockpiled, occupying large areas of land without providing practical use. Using this waste as aggregate would allow for the reduction of exploitation of increasingly scarce natural borrow pits and decrease the environmental impact caused by its stockpiles. The main objective is to study the feasibility of using copper slag as a total replacement for the stone aggregate used in simple asphalt surface treatments, a common solution for basic road pavements in the Valparaíso region. The physical properties of copper slag are evaluated according to the requirements indicated in national regulations, and then its properties are compared with aggregates commonly used in this task in the Valparaíso region, Chile. From the analysis of results, it is verified that copper slag meets all the requirements established by the Chilean Highway Manual to be used as aggregate in asphalt surface treatments. This residue presents unique properties such as high cubicity, low absorption, high net density, and even better adhesion with the binder than traditional aggregates, allowing for better interlocking with the granular base.
In conclusion, it is feasible to use slag as aggregate to materialize asphalt surface treatments, and its use provides a sustainable alternative for constructing low-traffic roads.
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