Tailings Can Be Utilised as a Low-Carbon Backfill Material in Mining Sites and as a Substitute for Concrete – Research Supporting Sustainable Mining Continues
Requirements related to the management of the environmental impact of mining, the reduction of waste and emissions, and the promotion of circular economy have increased. At the same time, demand for mined materials is growing. The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK), Savonia University of Applied Sciences, and company partners will continue their scientific collaboration to support sustainable mining and its circular economy.
Operating models of the circular economy strive to reduce the amount of waste and promote the efficient utilization of materials. Between 2019 and 2021, the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) and Savonia University of Applied Sciences studied the stabilization and utilization of dried tailings as backfill material for mines. Now research around the topic will continue in the SETELIT – Secondary Waste Streams, Added Value and Productization project. The SETELIT project examines the utilization of tailings as a low-carbon, curable paste backfill material in mining sites and as a substitute material for concrete outside mining sites. The project promotes the circular economy and energy management of the mining industry while reducing its generation of waste, emissions, environmental risks, and landscape impacts.
“All actions are important in creating a more sustainable and carbon-neutral future. Research plays a significant role in the development and testing of new innovations and solutions,” says Project Manager, Research Scientist Neea Heino from the Geological Survey of Finland.
“It is interesting to participate in a study that strives to promote the utilization of large waste streams in a tangible manner,” Heino continues.
In the project, Savonia University of Applied Sciences’ expertise in concrete technology, 3D printing, and water and environmental technology is combined with GTK’s expertise in geochemistry, mineralogy, X-ray tomography, 3D printing of geomaterials, and managing the environmental impact of the mining industry.
“This unique combination of competence and expertise enables the development of innovative products and methods. Our goal is to create comprehensive research, product development, and innovation services for companies operating in the mining industry, all the way from raw material testing to finished product,” says Petri Juntunen, Senior Specialist in Water Safety at Savonia.
The project is planned to be implemented between 1 March 2023 and 30 November 2025. The implementers are the Geological Survey of Finland GTK and Savonia University of Applied Sciences, and company partners include Agnico Eagle Finland Oy, Alva Oy, Fatec Oy, Fescon Oy, LKAB Minerals Oy, Sibelco Nordic Oy, Sika Finland Oy, and Yara Suomi Oy. The project is co-funded, and it is supported by the European Regional Development Fund (the Regional Council of Pohjois-Savo), the implementers, and company partners.
For more information
SETELIT project website: https://www.gtk.fi/en/research-project/setelit-secondary-waste-streams-added-value-and-productization/
Neea Heino, Research Scientist, Project Manager for the SETELIT project
Geological Survey of Finland
tel. +358 29 503 5170
neea.heino@gtk.fi
Petri Juntunen, Senior Specialist
Savonia University of Applied Sciences
tel. +358 44 785 6045
petri.juntunen@savonia.fi
