Geo-polymerization of mining tailing for use as a pavement construction material : a review

Abstract

Abstract Pavement construction usually involves using large quantities of natural aggregate materials majorly extracted from quarries and, in many cases, with the use of conventional stabilizers such as Portland cement, lime, and bitumen. In many developing countries, the exploitation of quarries has been so massive that there exists a shortage of these aggregates. Hence, the use of convenFonal stabilizers is a common pracFce. However, the use of conventional stabilizers is a major source of environmental contaminant for the environment. Therefore, alternaFve aggregate materials and stabilizaFon techniques in pavement construcFon are highly sought aNer. Recently, some researchers have proposed a new approach as an alternaFve to using convenFonal binders via alkali acFvaFon called geo-polymerizaFon to produce geopolymers. Some studies have shown that mine tailings (MT) can be used as a road base material through geopolymerizaFon. Even though there are different types of tailings, specific interest is on copper, iron, and gold tailings, this is due to their dominance in mining areas of South Africa. This paper presents a review of the mechanical properFes of geopolymerized tailings to enhance understanding of their potenFal applicaFon in sustainable infrastructures, such as pavements.