Innovative Reuse of Electric Arc Furnace Slag as Filler for Different Polymer Matrixes

The European steel industry produces about 70 million tons/year of by the electric arc furnace (EAF). slag consists 15% weight produced steel, thus from perspective circular economy, it has a high potential as co-product. This research aims to assess an innovative reuse EAF filler in different polymer matrixes: thermoplastic (polypropylene), thermosetting (epoxy resin), elastomeric (nitrile butadiene rubber), and recycled end life rubber tire. A comparison between neat filled with certain amount been carried out tensile (or flexural), compression, hardness tests. Experimental results show that increases composites’ elastic modulus at expense toughness. For safe slag, leaching hazardous elements must comply current legislation. It was found that, although used releases small amounts Cr, Mo, V, incorporating into matrix reduces leaching. particles distribution observed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. obtained good technical feasibility this application so could pave way new industrial symbiosis dissimilar sectors, bringing economic environmental benefits.