A Study on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete Containing Copper Mine Tailing

Document Type : Research Paper

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Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran

Abstract

Copper Mine Tailing (CMT) is a solid-state waste material created through the purification process of copper. Separation of these materials is conducted during the purification Process of copper from copper ores. Since CMT material is an environmental pollutant. The mining enterprises have already been costs a lot for maintenance of these materials. Thus, the disposal of CMT material is a controversial environmental issue which necessitates the reuse/recycle of these materials. Numerous studies have been implemented around the world to dispose these waste materials as partial or complete substitution of fine aggregates or cement in mortars and concrete. This study is aimed at investigating the use of CMT materials as a partial replacement of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in concrete. Specimens were prepared with 0%-30% of CMT material replacement of cement in concrete mixtures. Tests were conducted to determine the mechanical properties of concrete. In addition, the microstructure of cement paste including CMT-materials was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy tests. Results revealed that CMT material could be utilized up to 15% as partial replacement of cement. It was observed that CMT concrete (up to 15% substitution) had got improved mechanical properties in comparison to those of OPC concrete at different ages. It is an SiO2-rich material used as the potential source material for all construction projects. The statistical analysis illustrated that properties of CMT concrete were significant at 5% confidence level. Further, the environmental impact was computed and results shown that CMT concrete is more sustainable than control concrete and eco-friendly.

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