Special Issues

From Steel Slag to Net-Zero Construction Materials: Geopolymers, Alkali-Activated Systems and Life Cycle Sustainability

Submission Deadline: 01 June 2027 View: 25 Submit to Special Issue

Guest Editor(s)


Prof. Dr. Mucteba UYSAL

Email: mucteba@yildiz.edu.tr

Affiliation: Yildiz Technical University, Civil Engineering Department, Davutpasa Campus, Istanbul, Türkiye

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Research Interests: concrete technology, advanced construction materials, durability and service life engineering, structural materials, fiber-reinforced cementitious composites, recycling technologies in construction, sustainable infrastructure systems, material characterization, innovative curing techniques, performance optimization

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Dr. Beyza AYGUN

Email: beyza.aygun@okan.edu.tr

Affiliation: Istanbul Okan University, Vocational School, Istanbul, Türkiye

Homepage:

Research Interests: geopolymers, alkali-activated materials, sustainable concrete, recycled aggregates, fiber-reinforced composites, durability, electrothermal curing, life cycle assessment, circular economy, smart infrastructure

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Summary

The path towards net-zero construction necessitates the development of sustainable cementitious materials that reduce carbon emissions and optimize resource efficiency and circular economy practices. Among industrial byproducts, steel slag has emerged as a highly promising precursor due to its abundance, mineral composition, and ability to replace traditional cement-based products. Recent advancements in geopolymerization and alkali activation technologies enable efficient use of steel slag to produce sustainable, low-carbon construction materials with enhanced mechanical properties and durability. Beyond waste management, geopolymerization and alkali activation technologies help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, preserve natural resources, and implement circular economy practices in construction.

This Special Issue aims to highlight recent scientific and technological advances in steel slag-based geopolymers and alkali-activated materials for sustainable construction. Particular emphasis will be placed on industrial waste valorization, carbon footprint reduction, and life cycle assessment (LCA) as key approaches for developing sustainable construction materials.

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to:
· Steel slag-based geopolymerization and alkali-activation technologies
· Net-zero and low-carbon construction materials
· Circular economy and industrial waste valorization
· Life cycle assessment (LCA) and environmental sustainability


Original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and engineering case studies addressing these themes are warmly welcomed.


Keywords

steel slag, geopolymers, alkali-activated systems, net-zero construction, circular economy, industrial symbiosis, resource valorization, life cycle sustainability, decarbonization, carbon-neutral infrastructure

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