Feasibility of Iron Ore Tailings in Geopolymer Concrete for Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is a crucial aspect of any industry, especially in developing countries where the management of solid waste is a significant challenge. The introduction of Geopolymer Concrete (GPC) has paved the way for sustainable development in this sector. GPC replaces cement with fly ash, an industrial waste product from thermal power plants. This process not only reduces waste but also significantly lowers CO2 emissions. While the use of fly ash in GPC has proven to be effective, there are limitations due to the need for steam or thermal curing to achieve rapid strength development. The incorporation of ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) has further improved the sustainability of GPC. This addition allows for ambient curing and strength development, reducing energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, using another waste material, such as iron ore tailings, as a replacement for fine aggregate in GPC production demonstrates the potential for sustainable development. This approach reduces waste and creates a circular economy by repurposing a waste product. Thus, the introduction of GPC, the incorporation of industrial waste products, and the use of waste materials as replacements for traditional construction materials are all significant steps toward achieving sustainable development in the construction industry, which is dealt with in this paper, especially with the feasibility of introduction of iron ore tailings into GPC.