Use of secondary gold tailings as fine aggregate in concrete

Abstract

This research investigates the utilization of secondary gold mine tailings (SGT) in concrete production to address waste management concerns. This approach offers an environmentally friendly substitute for conventional sand, exploring various SGT proportions (ranging from 0% to 100%) as replacements for fine aggregate in concrete. The investigation assessed the fresh, mechanical, and durability properties of concrete made with SGT. The incorporation of SGT diminishes concrete workability while replacement levels of up to 75% exhibit higher fresh concrete density than reference concrete. The findings show that replacing up to 25% enhanced compressive strength, while up to 50% replacement improved splitting tensile strength compared to the reference concrete. Nevertheless, all concrete specimens achieved satisfactory strengths. Furthermore, the durability findings show the concrete specimens were less vulnerable to oxygen, water, and chloride attacks, signifying good-quality concrete. The study proposes substituting SGT for crusher sand to address environmental concerns, lower production costs, and conserve natural resources.