In an era where the construction industry grapples with sustainability challenges, a recent study has shed light on an innovative approach to mitigate environmental pollution caused by coal gangue. The research, led by Ping Liu from the College of Mining at Guizhou University, reveals how coal gangue can be transformed into a fill slurry material that not only addresses waste management but also enhances the stability of underground mining areas.
Coal gangue, a byproduct of coal mining, poses significant environmental threats. Liu’s research demonstrates that by combining coal gangue with water and fly ash, a slurry can be produced that exhibits stable rheological properties suitable for filling voids in mined-out areas. This process can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of coal mining operations while simultaneously repurposing waste material.
“The mass concentration of the slurry has the most substantial impact on its plastic viscosity and yield stress,” Liu explains. This finding is pivotal for construction professionals who seek to optimize the properties of fill materials. By adjusting the mass concentration and the composition of aggregates, the study identifies an optimal formulation: a 70% mass concentration, 10% fly ash, and a specific grading of aggregates. This tailored approach not only ensures the slurry’s effectiveness in filling rock voids but also enhances its stability, reducing the likelihood of water secretion and segregation.
The implications for the construction sector are profound. As the industry increasingly prioritizes sustainable practices, the ability to repurpose coal gangue into a functional fill material could lead to significant cost savings and improved project outcomes. Liu’s research provides a theoretical foundation for implementing this solution in real-world applications, potentially transforming how mining companies manage waste.
Furthermore, the study utilized advanced imaging and stress data acquisition systems to observe the flow and diffusion of the optimized slurry in mining areas, confirming its efficacy in practical settings. This hands-on approach not only validates the research but also offers a template for future studies aimed at enhancing the sustainability of construction materials.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the findings from this study, published in ‘Case Studies in Construction Materials’, could inspire further innovations in material science and waste management practices. The potential to create a circular economy within the mining sector is becoming increasingly tangible, and Liu’s work stands at the forefront of this transformation.
For more information on Ping Liu’s research, visit the College of Mining at Guizhou University at lead_author_affiliation.
