Study of Leaching Behavior of Copper Slag and Its Alkaline Activation Potential

This chapter delves into the leaching behavior of copper slag (CS) under severe alkaline conditions, focusing on the release of heavy metals and metalloids. It evaluates the compliance of CS with landfill disposal regulations and its potential as a precursor for alkali-activated binders (AABs). The study examines the chemical and mineralogical composition of CS, revealing a predominantly amorphous structure with significant amounts of iron and silicon oxides. Leaching tests conducted at different pH levels show that while CS meets inert waste criteria under standard conditions, highly alkaline environments can lead to the release of hazardous elements. The mechanical performance of alkali-activated CS pastes is assessed through compressive strength tests, demonstrating that increasing the silica modulus enhances strength. The findings highlight the potential of CS as a sustainable material in construction, offering a way to recycle industrial waste while reducing CO2 emissions. This study provides valuable insights for industry practices and policy development in waste utilization and environmental protection.