Multiple Applications of Tailings Recovery and Reuse

Tailings constitute the waste rock and slag discharged after mineral separation in ore processing, yet they are not entirely worthless waste. With rapid industrial development and substantial consumption of mineral resources, tailings discharge volumes have progressively increased. The development and utilisation of tailings represent not only a crucial task for the circular economy in mining but also hold significant importance for sustainable resource development. The diverse applications of tailings recovery and reuse are as follows:

1. Recycled Aggregates

Many recognise that tailings can be processed into recycled aggregates, including waste rock, which finds extensive applications.

2. Concrete Fine Aggregates

Tailings may be utilised in low-strength commercial concrete (e.g., C15, C20) or asphalt concrete. When employed as concrete fine aggregate, tailings must meet specific particle size requirements. If particle size is unsuitable, tailings require screening treatment. Coarse sand renders concrete dry and brittle, reducing workability; excessively fine sand not only causes severe segregation but also increases water demand, thereby elevating cement consumption.

3. Production of Building Materials Numerous processed tailings-derived building materials are now commercially available globally. Common products include microcrystalline glass, architectural ceramics, tailings cement, cast stone products, glassware, tailings fertilisers, and ash-sand bricks (non-fired bricks).

Processed tailings-derived manufactured sand can be utilised in concrete production, road surfacing materials, highway and railway construction, as well as serving as raw material for cement, refractories, glass, concrete aggregates, and roofing tiles. The rational utilisation of tailings promotes circular development in the mining industry, while tailings sand production presents new opportunities for mining enterprises. Should you require further information regarding equipment configuration for tailings sand production lines, detailed online consultations are available 24 hours a day!