Speaker
Description
Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) and Ladle Furnace (LF) slag, a byproduct of steelmaking, has emerged as a promising material for the natural capture of CO₂ through a process called mineral carbonation. Composed primarily of calcium and magnesium oxides, EAF slag reacts with atmospheric CO₂ to form stable carbonates, such as calcite and magnesite, under ambient conditions. This natural carbonation process not only sequesters CO₂ but also improves the slag's mechanical properties, making it suitable for use in construction materials like cement and aggregates. The carbonation of EAF slag offers a dual benefit: it reduces the carbon footprint of steel production by capturing CO₂ and transforms industrial waste into valuable resources. While the process occurs naturally, factors such as slag composition, particle size, and environmental conditions influence its efficiency. This study is ongoing to optimize carbonation rates and integrate this process into industrial practices, providing a sustainable pathway for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and advancing circular economy principles in the steel industry.