A study on geopolymerization of iron ore tailings.

Abstract

Geopolymers are a relatively new technology, which is pointed as a potential alternative to the ordinary Portland cement for some applications. The need for an alternative to this binder comes from the environmental problems related to its production process and the tremendous volume of non-replaceable resources extracted to its production. Considering the importance of ordinary Portland cement, to find a suitable alternative binder is a hard task. At the same time, the re-application of industrial by-products from several productive sectors is an effective management way to save non-replaceable resources as well as a correct destination. In this sense, the main objective of this study is evaluating the feasibility of the iron ore tailings as a raw material to the production of geopolymeric composites. Additionally, two blend materials and fine aggregate were applied and verified the influence and effects on the geopolymer final properties. Were applied a solution of sodium hydroxide at three different molar concentrations (8, 10, and 12 mol/l) and curing temperature of 100 °C. A depth characterization procedure was applied in all raw materials and blend used in this work. The performance of the obtained geopolymer was observed over mechanical strength, physical properties, dimensional stability, and microstructural analysis. The experimental procedure enabled a closely understand of the geopolymeric synthesis and kinetics, influence of specific aspects on the geopolymerization and final properties, and the role of iron in this process. The experimental results showed that the geopolymer based on iron ore tailings is an efficient binder with interesting properties to construction industry. Finally, the geopolymers derived from iron ore tailings rise as an interesting construction material.