Summary

This initiative was conducted in collaboration with Sohar University and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) through the EJAAD platform.

The project aimed to explore sustainable methods for producing concrete and asphalt by partially or fully substituting traditional raw materials (such as cement, sand, and aggregate) with locally available industrial waste. Two promising waste materials were selected: grit blasting metal waste from PDO operations and ferrochrome slag, a byproduct of ferrochrome production in Sohar.

Oman produces approximately 2 million tons of solid waste annually, including 120,000 tons of ferrochrome slag and 20% plastic waste. At the same time, PDO spends around $10 million USD every five years on concrete production. By replacing up to 20% of conventional materials with waste, the project offers potential cost savings and environmental benefits through reduced reliance on natural resources.

The research sought to:

• Evaluate the performance and feasibility of concrete/asphalt mixes containing local waste materials.
• Ensure that the new materials meet engineering standards for strength, durability, and usability.
• Recommend solutions for commercial implementation across PDO operations.

This applied research supports Oman’s shift toward sustainable construction practices, resource efficiency, and circular economy goals.

Research Team Members:

Principal Investigator:

• Dr. Mohsin Qureshi – Sohar University

Co-Investigators:

• Dr. Osama Ibrahim – Sohar University
• Dr. Wadhah Tawfeeq – Sohar University
• Maryam Al Saidi – Sohar University