Open AccessThe Effect of Clay Pozzolana-Cement-Composite on the Strength Development of a Hydraulic Backfill
Author(s) -
Samuel Nana Eshun,
Solomon S. R. Gidigasu,
Simon K. Y. Gawu
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
ghana mining journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2616-1478
pISSN - 0855-210X
DOI - 10.4314/gm.v18i1.4
Subject(s) - pozzolana , portland cement , cement , compressive strength , materials science , tailings , geotechnical engineering , composite material , metallurgy , geology , pozzolan
The study sought to investigate the potential application of clay pozzolana as a supplement for cement in hydraulic backfill, using classified tailings from AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi Mine. The percentage of the Portland cement that could be substituted with the clay pozzolana to produce backfill with best strength was determined. 10%, 25%, 30%, 35% and 40% of the ordinary Portland cement were replaced with clay pozzolana and then mixed with tailings and water. The slurry produced was cast into cylindrical specimen of 50mm diameter by 120mm high and tested for compressive strength after curing for 7, 14, 21, 28 and 56 days. The results indicate that, clay pozzolana-cement composite has potential for application in hydraulic back fill production without increased risk to safety and dilution. It was noted that hydraulic backfill with 10%, 25%, 30% and 35% of the ordinary portland cement replaced with clay pozzolana had strengths greater than those obtained for ordinary portland cement alone. Ten percent (10%) pozzolana content gave the maximum strength followed by 25% pozzolana. It is recommended that for safety and economic considerations, the cement content should be replaced by 25% pozzolana in the production of backfills. Keywords: Hydraulic Backfill, Portland Cement, Clay Pozzolana, Unconfined Compressive Strength