LAUSR

Abstract The present study details about the application of Steel Slag Aggregate (SSA) in pervious concrete and the SSA enhancement effect. Given the limitation of natural aggregates, the low utilization of SSA, and substantial urban environmental problems, SSA pervious concrete is considered an eco-friendly material for use in various civil and construction projects because of the beneficial effects of active hydration ingredients. However, there is limited research on the behavior of this clean material and its practical utilization. Therefore, different mix proportions based on SSA content were designed, and macroscopic properties were evaluated via laboratory tests. Based on Digital Image Processing (DIP), mesoscale finite element (FE) models containing zero-thickness Cohesive Zone Model (CZM) elements were used to study strengthening mechanisms and simulate cracking behavior. Compressive and splitting tensile strengths of 100% SSA pervious concrete increased by 35% and 50%, respectively, whereas the cost reduced by 18%. Interface transition zone (ITZ) enhancement is demonstrated as the main reason for performance improvement. The results of double-parametric inversion analysis indicated that cohesive strength and fracture energy of the ITZ increased by 52% and 35%, respectively. In particular, the increment in compressive strength was approximately proportional to slag aggregate content in addition to the increase in the shear cohesive strength of the ITZ; further, the increment in the splitting tensile strength was consistent with the increase in the tensile cohesive strength of the ITZ.