Sustainable utilization of copper post-flotation waste in cement composites

The current way of managing the copper ore flotation waste is by placing it in waste neutralization facilities. However, flotation waste has great potential in application in cement composites. The article presents the detailed characteristics of post-flotation waste (PFW) and three types of cements: CEM I, CEM II/B-V, and CEM III/A, 42.5 MPa class. The post-flotation waste added for 20% of the cement mass increase the water demand to obtain the standard consistency. The highest pozzolanic activity was noted for mortars made of Ordinary Portland Cement and cured at 20 ?. The lower curing temperature, i.e. 10 ?, delays the hydration reaction, extends setting time, and reduces compressive strength. The conducted tests showed that the specimens produced from CEM I and PFW have the highest compressive strength (after 28 and 90 days), which means that PFW does not react with silica fly ash (from CEM II/B-V) and granulated blast furnace slag (from CEM III/A). The reaction of the waste with the components of the Portland clinker is preferred. The performed studies proved that the utilization of copper post-flotation waste allows for the development of sustainable and durable composite made of CEM I and indicated the possibilities of further testing of waste, in the direction of its use as a mineral additive for concrete.