In the heart of Goa, a region renowned for its iron ore mining, a significant environmental challenge has emerged: the accumulation of iron ore tailings (IOTs). Over the past two decades, the mining industry has generated a staggering 7.7 million tonnes of these waste materials, posing threats to water resources, ecosystems, and land use. However, a groundbreaking study led by S. A. Kakodkar and Ulhas G. Sawaiker, published in ‘Nature Environment and Pollution Technology’ (which translates to ‘Nature Environment and Pollution Technology’), offers a promising solution that could revolutionize both waste management and the construction industry.
The research, focuses on the feasibility of incorporating IOTs into the production of construction blocks. By replacing 85% of the cement content with a cementitious material comprising 65% Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS), 10% Fly Ash, and 10% Lime, the study demonstrates a novel approach to high-volume waste consumption and improved resource efficiency. “This method not only addresses the environmental impact of IOTs but also provides a sustainable pathway for their utilization in the construction sector,” says Kakodkar.
The optimal mix design, as discovered by the researchers, utilizes 15% cement, 65% GGBS, 10% Fly Ash and Lime, and 100% IOTs as fine aggregate with 100% basaltic aggregates. This formulation successfully achieves compressive strengths of 10.91 N.mm-² and 15.92 N.mm-² at 7 and 28 days, respectively, satisfying the IS 2185-Part 1 (2005) code requirement. The block density was 2.20 g.cm-³. This research demonstrates the potential to convert a significant environmental challenge into a sustainable solution. By utilizing IOTs in construction block production, we can effectively achieve waste remediation; and create resource-efficient and eco-friendly building materials, offering substantial dual benefits for Goa’s environment and construction sector.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, which often grapples with the environmental fallout of mining activities, this study presents a viable solution for waste management. By converting IOTs into construction materials, mining companies can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to sustainable development goals. Additionally, the construction industry stands to benefit from a new, eco-friendly building material that meets industry standards for strength and durability.
The potential for future developments in this field is immense. As more research builds on these findings, we can expect to see innovative applications of IOTs in various construction materials, further driving the circular economy. This research not only addresses an urgent environmental issue but also paves the way for a more sustainable future in both the mining and construction sectors.