Researchers at Flinders University have developed a method that allows waste from the lithium industry to be used in innovative materials with better structural properties than traditional ones, reports ENN Researchers at Flinders University have taken an important step towards sustainability in the construction sector by using delithiated β-spodumene (DβS),
mining waste obtained in the refining of lithium process, as the main ingredient for the manufacture of environmentally friendly concrete. According to research conducted by the Australian university, adding this by-product to geopolymers not only improves the strength and durability of concrete, but also helps to reduce the environmental impact caused by the use of traditional materials in the industry.
Characteristics and advantages of DβS in concrete
The team led by Dr Aliakbar Golampour, from the Faculty of Science and Engineering at Flinders University, demonstrated that DβS, thanks to its pozzolanic properties, is suitable for inclusion in geopolymer binders. DβS contributes to improving the strength and durability of concrete, offering advantages over traditional materials. After conducting studies on the microstructural behaviour of the material and experimenting with different proportions of alkaline activators, the experts determined the ideal parameters that maximise both the sustainability and quality of concrete produced with this waste.
One of the notable aspects of DβS is its ability to improve both the mechanical characteristics and long-term strength of concrete. These results, collected and published by Flinders University, offer a real alternative for the use of industrial waste from mining. DβS, previously considered a problematic waste due to its increasing accumulation and potential for soil and groundwater contamination, is now seen as a valuable resource for the construction sector, according to the study’s findings.
Environmental impact and industrial application
The environmental impact of this innovation is of global importance. Approximately 25 billion tonnes of conventional concrete are produced annually, which means the consumption of about 30% of non-renewable natural resources and contributes to about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The use of DβS as a partial substitute for traditional materials in concrete significantly reduces the need for new resources and the amount of industrial waste sent to landfills, as well as lowering emissions associated with cement production.
Dr Golampour highlighted the environmental and technical advantages of this process: ‘This approach not only improves the mechanical properties and durability of geopolymer concrete, but also solves a growing environmental problem by removing DβS from landfills,’ according to statements collected by Flinders University. These applications, which go beyond the simple reuse of waste, contribute to the development of the circular economy in the mining and construction industries, as the prevention of landfill and industrial waste accumulation directly contributes to the prevention of environmental pollution.
The expert added that the reuse of DβS ‘offers a sustainable solution that will reduce industrial waste, prevent soil and groundwater contamination, and promote circular economy practices in the mining and construction industries.’ The use of DβS in construction helps to reduce waste volume and promotes a more responsible attitude towards the environment in industrial processes.
Joint research and prospects for the future
The research is international and interdisciplinary in nature. In addition to the Flinders University group, experts from the University of Melbourne participated, as well as researchers from Vietnam, Korea and Algeria. The results have been published in specialist scientific journals such as Materials and Structures and Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering, confirming the relevance of the project. The team continues to investigate other innovative solutions, such as the addition of synthetic fibres or the use of 3D printing technologies, to optimise the properties of eco-concrete, as well as studying the application of advanced machine learning models to predict the characteristics of new eco-materials.
Looking ahead, Flinders University plans to further optimise the mixtures and analyse the life cycle of geopolymer concretes developed using DβS. The aim is to facilitate their mass implementation in industry and promote the transition to more sustainable and resilient construction systems. The reuse of mining waste, such as DβS, reduces environmental impact, decreases resource consumption and paves the way for concretes with better characteristics and greater adaptability, which corresponds to the current needs of construction, concludes Flinders University.
