Chapter 13 - Recent practices in mine tailings’ recycling and reuse

Abstract

The generated tailings in the mining sector are mostly disposed through conventional tailings management systems (e.g., storing in tailings dams). Due to the depletion of global ore deposits and new environmental rules, it is inevitable to consider new tailings management systems including recycling and reuse. It is believed that tailings can be considered as a source of raw material when revalorized within the framework of the circular economy. Recycling and reuse of mine tailings through innovative approaches are already practiced in diverse sectors including mining (e.g., cemented paste backfill), construction and building (e.g., ceramic, brick, geopolymer, and complementary cementitious materials), chemistry (e.g., drugs and coatings), energy (e.g., battery and communication), and environment (e.g., rehabilitation). Considering this, the following chapter reviews and discusses the potential usages of tailings through conventional and innovative recycling and reuse methods. The aim is to motivate scientists for considering mine tailings as a source for raw materials that can be utilized in different industrial applications while developing a cleaner environment and sustainable industry.