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š”7 innovative ways to use steel slag in sustainable construction | MORFEO
The use of steel slag in construction is establishing itself as one of the most promising solutions for moving towards a more efficient, circular and environmentally friendly model. In this context, at TESELA we are leading the MORFEO project, an initiative focused on transforming industrial waste into a high-value-added resource for the construction sector.
The main objective of the MORFEO project is to recover slag from electric arc furnaces, exploring its use as a raw material in mortars and alkali-activated concrete. This approach not only reduces the environmental impact associated with waste accumulation, but also paves the way for new materials with advanced technical properties. Below, we outline its seven key points.
7 key aspects of steel slag in sustainable construction
Industrial waste recovery: One of MORFEOās core principles is to transform an industrial by-product into a useful resource. Steel slag ceases to be waste and is instead incorporated into new construction processes.
Reducing environmental impact: In Spain, approximately 1.5 million tonnes of steel slag are generated each year. Reusing this slag directly helps to minimise environmental impact and the pressure on landfill sites.
Promoting the circular economy: The use of steel slag in sustainable construction helps to close the material cycle by reintroducing materials into the production system and reducing the extraction of natural resources.
An alternative to traditional cement: Its use in alkaline-activated mortars and concretes offers a more sustainable alternative to conventional cement, significantly reducing COā emissions.
Improved technical performance: The materials developed offer advanced properties such as greater durability, chemical resistance and improved thermal performance, making them particularly competitive.
Development of innovative materials: At TESELA, we are working on solutions with insulating, refractory and porous applications, expanding their potential for use across various sectors of the construction industry.
Collaboration for innovation: The MORFEO project is being developed in collaboration with EXTRACO, CELSA GROUP and CETIM Technological Centre, combining industrial and technological expertise to deliver practical, scalable solutions.
Innovation and knowledge transfer
The projectās progress was recently presented at the 3rd International Conference of the Spanish Association for Eco-Sustainable Concrete (EcoH), held at the University of A CoruƱa. Events of this kind are key to sharing results, fostering collaboration and accelerating the adoption of sustainable solutions within the sector.
Towards more sustainable construction
The incorporation of steel slag into sustainable construction represents a significant step towards decarbonising the sector. It is not merely a matter of reusing waste, but of redefining the way we think about building materials. That is why the MORFEO project demonstrates that it is possible to turn an environmental challenge into a technological opportunity, in line with European objectives on sustainability and resource efficiency.
At TESELA, we remain committed to research, innovation and collaboration as the driving forces behind building a more sustainable future, where the circular economy and technological development form the cornerstones of change.
