Potential of Iron ore tailings as supplementary material for sand

Abstract

Abstract Due to the high demand for concrete in the construction industry and the problem of depletion of sand, resulting from climate change ravaging all parts of the world, particularly in areas prone to erosion, there is a need for alternative material for sand. In this study, the classification of iron ore tailings (IOTs) as a complementary material for sand in concrete is reported. The IOTs were characterized using x-ray fluorescence (XRF), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), electron dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and the determination of the physical properties. The results revealed that IOTs has similar and distinct properties, compared with sand. The outcome of the x-ray fluorescence shows the dominance of silicon dioxide, in the chemical composition. Electron dispersive spectroscopy identified silicon and calcium as the key elements present in the IOTs. Field emission scanning electron microscopy image clearly revealed that, the iron ore tailings has larger particles per surface area compared with the natural sand. The sieve analysis and specific gravity results indicate availability of finer particles in IOTs compared to sand. Based on the outcome of the characterization of the iron ore tailings, it suggests that it can be used as fine aggregate