Compressive stress distribution of concrete with EAF oxidising slag aggregates

The compressive stress distribution of concrete was assessed to serve as a basis for evaluation of the flexural performance of structural members using electric arc furnace (EAF) oxidising slag aggregates. Eccentric loading tests were conducted on C-type specimens with aggregate type and compressive strength as variables. Compared with concrete made using natural aggregates, concrete made with EAF oxidising slag aggregates was found to result in a 20% increase in compressive strength for the same concrete mix and required a lower proportion of cement to attain the same strength. Compared with the specimens made with natural aggregates, specimens made with EAF oxidising slag aggregates had larger areas under the ascending curves because of their higher elastic moduli and superior compressive strain, arising from a more gradual decrease in the descending curves representing stress–strain relationships. In addition, specimens made with EAF oxidising slag aggregates exhibited a more gradual rate of decrease in ultimate strain with an increase in compressive strength.