As one of the top choices for architects in London, we have plenty of experience with concrete. It is far and away the most popular building material in the world. People use it for all kinds of structures, from homes to bridges. It is versatile, long lasting, and reliable. So, its use will likely continue for many years.
However, there is a big question mark about the environmental impact of concrete. Research is ongoing to find ways to make it easier on the environment. One of the interesting ideas here is using steel slag. It could hold the key for an evolution in the material.
What is the big issue?
The main problem with concrete is it relies heavily on natural aggregates. They make up as much as 75% of the material. Their role is to provide the mechanical strength and durability. The cement and water bond them together.
Generally gravel, crushed stone, and sand are the popular aggregate choices. But, removing them from nature in large volumes can have a massive impact. It also often requires a huge amount of energy and produces big carbon emissions. Plus, transporting the materials can create even more emissions.
Our job as architects in London is to help people choose the right materials for projects. We can look at concrete and other options with you to see what will be best. It is vital to look at all sides here, including the environmental impact, sustainability, and performance.
Swapping for steel slag
Researchers have been looking at the potential for steel slag to replace the traditional aggregates. The material is a waste product from the production of steel. It is a complex mix of silicates and oxides. Adding it to concrete could provide some really interesting benefits.
For starters, the steel slag can become an integral part of the concrete mix because it acts as filler. As a result, the final material can have better density when it cures. In turn that improves the strength and durability. Tests from Australia found the material to be 17% stronger. Other research found it to have higher compressive strength too.
Concrete with steel slag also had a lower coefficient of thermal expansion. This is a very important thing. What it means is the material will have a higher resistance to shrinkage cracking.
The environmental benefits are fantastic here too. Firstly it would save natural aggregates and all the emissions for removing and transporting them. Secondly, it would make use of industrial waste. The steel industry produces millions of tonnes of the steel slag every year. Some is recycled but a lot has no use and can contaminate land. Adding it to concrete is much better in an environmental sense.
Overall the steel slag can provide performance benefits while also helping the environment and economy. It is also sustainable because the steel industry is always producing it. That is better than using finite natural resources.
So, in the future we could see steel slag concrete become a more popular choice for different projects. The slag already has some uses, including for filling excavations and as an aggregate for asphalt.
Decide on materials with help from architects in London
The materials you use will have a massive impact on your property. It will determine crucial things like the longevity and level of upkeep. Plus, it will affect the look and style. Even more importantly, it is a major factor in the carbon footprint and sustainability. You can make a difference to the environment if you choose the right resources.
If you need help here, you should talk to us. We have been one of the top architects in London for years. As a result, we have a diverse portfolio of projects. They feature a huge array of different materials and we are always happy to look at other alternatives. Ultimately, we want to work with you to select the best ones. So, contact us today to get started.