PROJECT NUMBER: 25/024
PROJECT TITLE: Evaluating the Potential of Mine Waste for Construction Solutions
CLIENT: MRIWA
DISCIPLINE: Mining Engineering, Construction Engineering/Management, Civil Engineering, Sustainability Studies, Geology
SUPERVISOR: Dr Cristina Vulpe
PROJECT TYPE: Full or 3/4 – Final Year Research Project. HDR Placement students may also apply.
STUDENTSHIP: $10,125 – $16,200 (depending on project type)
DEADLINE: Tuesday 18th February via https://ceed.wa.edu.au/prospective-scholars/apply-now/
DESCRIPTION:
Background: The mining sector in Western Australia generates substantial volumes of waste, which may present considerable environmental and economic challenges. Addressing these issues is crucial for the advancement of sustainable practices within the industry. One viable approach involves the repurposing of mine waste, particularly tailings, into value-added products such as construction materials. This research critically evaluates the potential of mine waste in the production of various construction materials, including bricks, tiles and concrete, thereby supporting the transition toward a circular economy. Through this analysis, the study aims to assess the feasibility and benefits of utilising mining by-products as an alternative resource, contributing to both waste reduction and resource efficiency in the construction industry.
Challenge: Utilising mine waste in construction presents significant opportunities; however, several significant challenges must be addressed. Key challenges include the need to ensure the quality and durability of materials sourced from mine waste. Additionally, compliance with regulatory and safety standards is paramount, necessitating rigorous testing to validate the suitability of such materials for various building applications. Furthermore, the interpretation of test results often involves complexities that require rigorous analysis to ensure accuracy and reliability in assessing the material properties. Addressing these challenges is essential for the successful integration of mine waste into the construction industry.
Output: This project aims to produce a report detailing the study’s findings, which will include:
– A literature review assessing existing research and identifying knowledge gaps concerning mine waste utilisation in construction.
– An analysis of case studies demonstrating the use of various types of mine waste in producing building materials, highlighting successful implementations and outlining the challenges faced
– Recommendations for optimising formulations, maintaining quality control and addressing regulatory requirements when employing mine waste as a construction material.
– Presentation materials summarising the project outcomes and showcasing the potential for valorising mine waste in the construction sector.
The students are expected to collaborate with the other two related MRIWA’s CEED research projects.
The student will work under the guidance of MRIWA.