The Effect of Waste Material Addition on The Physical Properties of Ternary Cement

Abstract

Cement production is a significant source of CO? emissions; therefore, partial replacement of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with supplementary materials can reduce environmental impact. This study evaluates ternary blended cement incorporating locally available steel slag, calcined clay, and limestone in Iraq as partial OPC replacements. Replacement levels ranged from 30% to 60%. The effects on standard consistency, setting times, and soundness were investigated. Results showed that water demand increased with higher replacement levels, reaching 48% at 60% substitution. Slag replacement (25–30%) increased initial and final setting times by up to 29% and 45%, respectively. In contrast, calcined clay replacement (up to 35%) reduced initial and final setting times by up to 26% and 15%, respectively. Soundness values remained within acceptable limits for all mixes. The findings indicate that high-volume ternary blends can reduce clinker content while maintaining acceptable physical properties, offering environmentally and economically sustainable alternatives to conventional OPC.