Currently, millions of tons of textile waste are generated around the world. In the European Union alone, an estimated 5.8 million tonnes of textile waste are produced annually, of which only 25% are recycled. Globally, textile production reached 106 million tonnes in 2020, accounting for 8–10% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Additionally, steel slag is a by-product of the steelmaking industry, with an emission volume of approximately 15% of crude steel production. Given this scenario, the construction sector plays a crucial role in achieving climate neutrality by developing alternative materials derived from waste, particularly those with the potential to absorb CO₂, instead of emitting it. This study evaluated the influence of the viscose waste fibres on the flexural strength and carbonation uptake of the electric arc furnace slag (EAFS) composites. Specimens were designed with 2% fibre volume fractions and steel slag particles ground for 2 and 20 minutes. The samples underwent a 24-hour carbonation curing and hardening process in a controlled atmosphere. Flexural strength, porosity, and CO₂ uptake were analysed. The results revealed significant changes in porosity and carbonation uptake, as well as a strong influence of the grinding time on flexural strength. Specimens incorporating ground steel slag for 20 minutes and 2% fibre content exhibited higher flexural strength and ductility. The use of these waste-derived materials in construction could play a key role in sustainability, offering environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Rodríguez et al. (Wed,) studied this question.