Influence of Addition Contents of Iron Ore Tailings on Structural Mortar

Abstract

This study discusses and analyzes an alternative of IOT reuse as addition in structural mortars, evaluating the influence of IOT addition contents. The material was physically and chemically characterized. Structural mortars were molded with 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% of addition of IOT in relation to cement mass. We investigate physical properties, mechanical indicators, durability indicators and microstructure. The tailings are composed of predominantly quartz, hematite and goethite, and no components were found that could compromise the cementitious composites. The addition of IOT provided a tendency to reduce open porosity. The addition of 30% IOT was the most efficient in closing pores. All addition contents led to the maintenance or gains in mechanical properties, and a 10% gain in flexural tensile strength was observed for the addition of 10% IOT. The addition of 40% IOT promoted a 14% gain in compressive strength and maintenance of flexural tensile strength. This addition content evidences that the carbonation depth was not significantly affected. Based on the results, the addition percentages of 30-40% are interesting as to the analyzed properties.