Towards Sustainable Shotcrete in Mining: A Literature Review on the Utilization of Tailings as a Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregate

This paper examines the potential use of tailings as a partial replacement for fine aggregate in shotcrete applications within the mining industry. The study explores the environmental, performance, and economic advantages and challenges associated with incorporating tailings into shotcrete mixtures. The research findings reveal that shotcrete mixtures containing tailings can achieve comparable or even superior compressive and flexural strength properties compared to conventional shotcrete, both in early age and at 28 days. Moreover, utilizing tailings in shotcrete offers environmental benefits by reducing waste accumulation and minimizing the need for transporting and maintaining tailings storage facilities. This not only mitigates environmental contamination but also reduces fuel consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions. However, the successful implementation of shotcrete with tailings requires addressing technical and operational challenges. Factors such as porosity, temperature, and pumping control significantly impact shotcrete quality and homogeneity, necessitating the use of inorganic additives, appropriate curing measures, and fiber reinforcement to enhance compaction and reduce porosity. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the Chilean shotcrete regulations share similarities with international standards such as ACI and EFNARC, ensuring the applicability and quality of shotcrete mixtures with tailings within the Chilean mining context. Concluding the integration of tailings in shotcrete presents an opportunity to improve sustainability and efficiency in the mining industry. Proper tailings selection, pre-treatment, and adherence to standards are crucial for successful implementation.