Utilization of ground granulated blast-furnace slag and electrolytic manganese residue as a low-carbon cementitious material

Ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) is a common substitute for ordinary Portland cement (OPC). However, GGBS–OPC lacks early strength when OPC content is low (<50%). A new cementitious material called GGBS–OPC–EMR (GOE) was developed by adding electrolytic manganese residue (EMR) to address this issue. Tests were conducted using XRD, SEM, and TG to analyze the micro-structural mechanisms of strength development in GOE. Environmental and economic evaluations were conducted, including CO2-eq (carbon dioxide equivalent) analysis, leaching tests, and economic analysis. Results showed that mixture of GGBS, OPC, and EMR in a 4:2:1 ratio increased the unconfined compressive strength by 25% after 28 days compared to OPC while reducing cement consumption by 70%. Major hydration products in GOE were C–S–H and ettringite (AFt), with approximately 14% EMR promoting AFt production. GOE reduced CO2-eq emissions by 35.9% and saved $46.6/ton compared to OPC. Leaching tests demonstrated GOE's ability to stabilize heavy metals, sulfate, and ammonia nitrogen.