Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Journal of Materials Engineering and Performance, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
This study investigates the effects of using lead slag waste as a replacement material in cement mortars on radiation shielding, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and structural properties. Lead slag is a by-product of the metal industry and presents a potential evaluation area for use in cement-based materials due to its high density and radiation absorption capacity. In the study, cement mortars containing lead slag in specified proportions were prepared, and their radiation shielding properties were tested in accordance with the related standard. Electrical conductivity measurements were taken to determine the structural homogeneity and ion mobility of the cement mortar. For mechanical strength evaluation, flexural and compressive strength tests were conducted. Structural properties were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction to examine the microstructural characteristics. The results showed that as the lead slag content increased, radiation shielding performance improved, and electrical conductivity increased; however, mechanical strength decreased. Scanning electron microscopy analyses revealed significant differences in the microstructural properties of the cement mortar, indicating that lead slag replacement increased porosity within the structure. Additionally, the inclusion of lead slag reduced the flow diameter of the mortars and increased their water absorption. Furthermore, x-ray diffraction analyses identified the formation of distinct phase structures in the mortars due to lead slag incorporation. These findings suggest that lead slag waste can be considered a sustainable replacement material in cement mortars. In addition, this study aimed to obtain environmentally friendly results by reusing lead slag waste.