Utilization of Copper Mine Tailings as Road Construction Materials Through Geopolymerization

This chapter discusses the potential valorization of copper mine tailings as a sustainable road construction material through geopolymerization, and addresses environmental, technological, and economic challenges. Geoploymerization mitigates heavy metal pollution and acid mine drainage by transforming waste into usable materials, reducing the need for large storage facilities and minimizing contaminant release. Technological hurdles include tailoring geopolymerization methods to accommodate varying tailings compositions and optimizing alkali activators to meet mechanical and durability standards for road construction. Economic factors involve the reactivity of tailings, value retention from original ores, and potential contamination risks. Future research aims to scale laboratory successes to real-world applications, enhance public trust in geopolymer, and conduct comprehensive environmental assessments.