Evaluation Of Concretes With Mining And Steelmaking Waste As Aggregates In Concrete Production

Background: Technological development, although essential for progress, is intrinsically linked to the exploitation of natural resources and the generation of waste, especially in sectors such as mining, steel production, and construction. Materials and Methods: In this context, with the aim of promoting sustainability in construction, this research evaluated the potential of copper ore and steel industry waste as aggregates in concrete. Results: The waste, sourced from the Carajás region (PA), was characterized by granulometry and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and incorporated at different levels (0%, 15%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) into concrete mixes with Portland cement CP V-ARI. Slump, water absorption, and axial compressive strength tests were conducted. Conclusion: The results indicated that substitution levels of 15% and 25% resulted in lower water absorption and compressive strengths similar to or higher than the reference concrete, demonstrating the potential of these wastes as aggregates and contributing to the circular economy and reduction of natural resource consumption.