Journal of Structural and Construction Engineering

Journal of Structural and Construction Engineering

Feasibility of producing a novel product using red mud waste generated in the alumina processing to create added value and prevent waste disposal.

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
GholamReza Havaei 1
SeyedAli Mohseni 2
1 Assistant professor, Department of Civil and Environment Engineering, AmirKabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering and Environmental, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
10.22065/jsce.2025.523805.3731
Abstract
This research investigates the use of red mud from the alumina plant as a partial replacement for slag in alkali-activated concrete. The main objective of this study is to produce high-performance products while reducing the environmental impacts associated with industrial waste. In this regard, various percentages of red mud (up to 40%) were incorporated into alkali-activated concrete, and its effects on properties such as setting time, compressive strength, flexural strength, and water absorption were examined. The results showed that adding up to 20% red mud increased the setting time of the concrete, which can be beneficial in specific projects. The highest compressive strength was observed in samples containing 20% red mud, with 40 MPa at 7 days and 55 MPa at 28 days, which is suitable for structural applications. Additionally, the use of 30% and 40% red mud also resulted in acceptable compressive strength. This research demonstrated that red mud can serve as an effective replacement for slag in alkali-activated concrete without significantly reducing the concrete’s strength. Overall, this study presents an innovative solution for the reuse of industrial waste, particularly in the production of precast concrete and concrete components, and improves the durability and sustainability of concrete under various environmental conditions.
Keywords
Bauxite residue
red mud
geopolymer concrete
alkali-activated
concrete

Subjects

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  • Receive Date 11 December 2024
  • Revise Date 03 March 2025
  • Accept Date 09 April 2025