Crafting Sustainability: Optimizing Oxalic Acid in Iron Carbonate Binder Formulation with Waste Iron Powder for a Carbon-Negative Impact

Abstract

The construction industry, while facing challenges related to pollution and global warming, is largely dependent on cement, intensifying environmental concerns. This study aims to alleviate this impact by diminishing cement reliance in construction, focusing on the development of green concrete through the utilization of alternative, renewable materials. Among these, the Iron Carbonate binder emerges as an innovative solution, blending iron dust, fly ash, lime powder, and metakaolin. To enhance the utilization of iron waste, oxalic acid, a chelating agent, is incorporated into the binding formulation. This binder undergoes a unique strengthening process, relying on carbon dioxide curing followed by ambient curing for moisture removal. The research is dedicated to exploring the mechanical properties of the Iron Carbonate binder, with a specific focus on compressive strength. To optimize its composition, the study evaluates the ideal content of oxalic acid and the water-binder ratio with casting methodology such as wet mix method, specifically considering the method of addition of oxalic acid in conjunction with other raw materials. The casting methodology involves addition of the diluted oxalic acid to a proportionally dry mixed raw material which is then compacted, compressed and ejected mechanically and placed in carbon dioxide environment with immediate demolding followed by defined curing regime. The study is limited to specific water-binder ratio and oxalic acid concentrations based on experimental constraints and challenges. Microstructural characterization is also an important aspect of this research, aiming to understand the behavior of varying dosages of oxalic acid and water-binder ratios concerning strength. By investigating into these mechanical and microstructural intricacies, the study contributes valuable insights towards the sustainable evolution of construction practices, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional concrete. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.