Comparative performance analysis of bituminous mixtures with EAF steel slags: a laboratory evaluation

The paper presents the results of a laboratory study, conducted at the Experimental Road Laboratory of the University of Padova, in order to verify the possibility to use different types of electric arc furnace (EAF) steel slags – in substitution of the natural aggregates – in the composition of both dense graded and porous asphalt mixes for flexible road pavements. The research has been articulated in a preliminary study of the chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of the EAF steel slags, and in the following mix design and performance characterization of the bituminous concretes, through stiffness modulus tests at various temperatures and permanent deformation (creep) tests. All the mixtures with EAF slags have satisfied the requisites for acceptance standardized for the road sector, thus resulting as suitable for use in the construction of infrastructures, moreover presenting higher mechanical characteristics than those of the corresponding asphalts with full natural aggregate.