Characteristics of Concrete Containing Iron Ore Tailings as Partial Replacement of Sand

Abstract

Abstract Natural sand has been the conventional fine aggregate in concrete production for many decades. However, there has been extensive research into alternative materials suitable to replace sand in concrete. In this research Itakpe Iron Ore Tailings (IIOT) was used as partial replacement of fine aggregate in concrete production. The IIOT was obtained from different locations at the tailings dump sites of National Iron Ore Mining Company (NIOMCO) in Itakpe, Kogi State, Nigeria. Sieve analysis, Specific gravity, Bulk density, Moisture content, AIV and ACV tests were carried out on the aggregate. Three concrete specimens were prepared from a mix of designed strength 25N/mm2. IIOT was used to replace fine aggregates from 0% to 20% in steps of 5%. Concrete cubes measuring 150 x 150 x 150mm were cast and theirdensities and compressive strengths evaluated at 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The result showed IIOT concrete had high densities than control due to the Iron (Fe) content while that of 5% IIOT has the highest compressive strength of concrete at 28days and 15% and 20% were very close to 5%. The findings of this research showed there is a potential towards utilization of IIOT in construction applications and can serve as a normal aggregate alternative for future use. Tailings promote the preparation of eco-friendly IIOT concrete and provide a new way to use waste resources.