SUSTAINABILITY ANALYSIS OF COPPER SLAG AND REPLACEMENT FOR CONCRETE

• Published in: International Multidisciplinary Scientific GeoConference SGEM Vol. 2024; no. 6.1; pp. 311 - 318
• Main Authors: Verbal, María José Pérez, González, Marcos Diaz, Torres, Andrés Gabriel César, Pradena-Miquel, Mauricio
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Sofia Surveying Geology & Mining Ecology Management (SGEM) 01.01.2024
• Subjects: Aggregate extraction; Aggregates; Concrete; Concrete aggregates; Concrete mixes; Concrete mixing; Concrete properties; Copper; Cost control; Environmental impact; Hydrology; Landfill; Landfills; Legislation; Quality of life; Slag; Sustainability; Sustainable development; Waste disposal sites; Waste management; Chile
• ISSN: 1314-2704
• DOI: 10.5593/sgem2024/6.1/s26.46

Chile is one of the largest copper producers in the world, which implies a significant generation of waste, particularly copper slag (CS). On the other hand, the high demand for concrete mixes generates a high consumption of natural aggregates as sand. However, specialized literature indicates that the fine aggregate can be partially replaced by CS keeping (or improving) the concrete properties. Then, this paper presents a sustainability analysis of the partial replacement of fine aggregate of concrete by CS. The magnitude of the benefits that would be obtained from recycling at an environmental, economic, and social level will be directly associated with the legislation and will condition the responsibility of the producer regarding their waste. In addition, aggregate extraction 1s reduced having an extra positive effect in the natural capital. Finally, there are social benefits associated mainly to the improved quality of life of the population surrounding the landfills of CS.