Properties of blast-furnace slags containing high amounts of manganese

This paper presents results of tests performed to characterize the physical and chemical properties of bye blast-furnace slags having MnO content up t o 21%. The interactions between ordinary Portland cement or calcium oxide a nd each slag were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron micr oscopy, and thermoanalysis. Mortars and concretes using these slags were ca st. When ground to a Blaine surface area of 300 m(2)/kg, the slags were uti lized in road binders in combination with calcium oxide or Portland cement. When ground to a Blaine surface area of 600 m(2)/kg, the slags were introd uced into the composition of different concretes instead of fly ash or sili ca fume. Based on the resulting high strengths, fine grinding of manganese- rich slag for use in concrete appears to be a good way of beneficiation. (C ) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.