GEOSLAGS

How can conventional concrete be replaced with a higher-performance, more circular alternative in the construction of commercial and industrial buildings?

The GEOSLAGS project, led by a consortium exclusively based in Wallonia, aims to create a new, fully integrated value chain within the region to support, initially, the construction of commercial and industrial buildings using an innovative hybrid geopolymer. This new material offers adaptable mechanical and thermal performance depending on specific needs.

This alternative to traditional concrete is based on a hybrid geopolymer binder that functions as a substitute for cement in concrete formulations, with strength properties equal to or even superior to standard concrete. It incorporates non-valorised stainless steel slag, currently underutilized, thereby enhancing the circularity of the industrial sector.

Moreover, this solution significantly reduces—or even eliminates—the need for natural rolled sand, which is in critical shortage and whose extraction harms marine ecosystems, or crushed natural sand. The project’s circular economy benefits and environmental performance will be validated through a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA).

Highlights :

• Innovative low-carbon Walloon alternative to conventional concrete for prefabricated commercial or industrial buildings.

• Valorisation of accumulated stainless steel slags currently lacking recycling pathways.

• Customizable density and thermal insulation, enabling the replacement of conventional insulation materials, with the added benefit of full fire resistance