India is making significant strides in sustainable infrastructure by incorporating steel slag, a byproduct of steel manufacturing, into road construction. This approach addresses environmental concerns associated with steel slag disposal and offers a durable alternative to traditional road materials.
The Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) – Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) has developed a technology to process steel slag aggregates for road construction. This innovation has been implemented in various projects across the country, demonstrating the material's effectiveness in enhancing road durability and performance.
In Surat, Gujarat, a 1.2-kilometer stretch of road was constructed using 100% processed steel slag aggregates. This project showcased the material's resilience under heavy traffic conditions and its potential to reduce the demand for natural aggregates, thereby conserving natural resources and minimizing environmental impact.
Additionally, a section of the Mumbai-Goa National Highway (NH-66) was paved with steel slag aggregates. This initiative further underscores the viability of steel slag in large-scale road construction projects, contributing to the development of more sustainable infrastructure.
ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) has partnered with CSIR-CRRI to promote the adoption of steel slag road technology. The company has secured a license to manufacture and market processed steel slag aggregates for road construction, aligning with India's commitment to sustainable development and the efficient use of industrial byproducts.
These developments reflect a growing recognition of the benefits of utilizing steel slag in road construction, including cost-effectiveness, enhanced durability, and environmental sustainability. The continued collaboration between industry leaders and research institutions is expected to drive further advancements in this field, paving the way for more resilient and eco-friendly infrastructure across the country.