Article
Construction & Building Technology
Baifa Zhang, Ting Yu, Liangliang Deng, Yun Li, Haozhe Guo, Junming Zhou, Lijuan Li, Yuan Peng
Summary: Ion-adsorption type rare earth tailings (RET) were used to prepare alkali-based geopolymer, and the effects of alkaline activator, curing temperature, and liquid/solid ratio on the compressive strength were investigated. The results showed that optimized RET-based geopolymer had a dense microstructure and a compressive strength of 28.5 MPa. The leaching test indicated that the geopolymer effectively immobilized heavy metals, with immobilization efficiency above 99% for Pb2+ and ranging from 92% to 96% for Cd2+.
CEMENT & CONCRETE COMPOSITES
(2022)
Review
Construction & Building Technology
Jiarui Liu, Jeung-Hwan Doh, Dominic E. L. Ong, Zhuang Liu, Muhammad N. S. Hadi
Summary: This paper reviews and compares four mainstream methods for quantifying the geopolymerization reactivity (GR) of aluminosilicate precursors (APs). It suggests the need for a more consistent method to determine the GR of APs. The quantitative X-ray diffraction (QXRD) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) methods show good agreement in characterizing the inherent amorphous phases of APs, while selective dissolution and leaching tests prove to be more indicative. However, further optimization and standardization are necessary for these two methods.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2023)
Review
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Heidi L. Cossey, Anya E. Batycky, Heather Kaminsky, Ania C. Ulrich
Summary: The review discusses five mechanisms of geochemical change expected in tailings landforms: consolidation, chemical mass loading via pore water fluxes, biogeochemical cycling, polymer degradation, and surface water and groundwater interactions. Key considerations and knowledge gaps regarding the long-term geochemical stability of tailings landforms are identified, including salt fluxes and subsequent water quality, bioremediation and biogenic greenhouse gas emissions, and the biogeochemical implications of various tailings treatment methods meant to improve geotechnical properties of tailings, such as flocculant (polyacrylamide) and coagulant (gypsum) addition.
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Zhang Xiaolong, Zhang Shiyu, Liu Hui, Zhao Yingliang
Summary: Mining plays a crucial role in human history, but also has negative impacts on the environment and health. Mine tailings are a significant threat from ore processing. Geopolymerization offers a promising approach to recycle mine tailings and convert waste into value.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Yang Zhang, Hao Liu, Tao Ma, Conglin Chen, Gonghui Gu, Jianhua Wang, Xin Shang
Summary: This study focuses on the value-added utilization of copper tailings (CT) by preparing geopolymer composites using CT powder, granulated blast furnace slag, and fly ash. The results show that CT powder participates in the geopolymerization reaction and acts as a filler when incorporated as micro powders. Increasing the CT content enhances the mechanical strength of the geopolymer paste, and the replacement of natural fine aggregates with CT sand improves the interfacial transition zone between the geopolymer paste and sand, leading to better mechanical properties of the mortar. Furthermore, immobilizing CT in the geopolymer mortar significantly reduces the leaching of heavy metals, minimizing the environmental impact of CT utilization.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Shanmei Li, Kai Shou, Lei Wang, Zhikui Liu
Summary: This study investigates the temperature effect and action mechanism of tungsten tailings strength activated by NaOH by conducting unconfined compressive strength tests on specimens with different moisture contents and NaOH/TMG ratios. The results show that the strength of tungsten tailings activated by NaOH first increases and then decreases with the increase of curing temperature, reaching the maximum at 90 degrees C. Different proportions of C(N)-A-SH gels mixed with PS and PSS types are generated at different temperatures activated by NaOH. The research provides scientific basis and references for the resource utilization of tungsten tailings.
CASE STUDIES IN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Vanessa Proust, Alban Gossard, Joseph Schaeperkoetter, Samuel Vannier, Thomas David, Yves Barre, Scott Misture, Agnes Grandjean, Hans-Conrad zur Loye
Summary: Researchers are facing the challenge of dealing with an increasing amount of nuclear waste and the serious threat it poses to the environment. They are working on developing highly selective sorbents and ensuring safe disposal. Zeolite-containing geopolymers are being explored as a potential solution, as they combine the adsorption properties of zeolite with the structural flexibility of geopolymer binders. By dispersing NaY zeolite particles in a geopolymer binder, porous composites were prepared and their structural properties analyzed.
JOURNAL OF WATER PROCESS ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Aldo Ribeiro de Carvalho, Bianca Rafaela da Silva Calderon-Morales, Jose Carlos Borba Jr, Thais Mayra de Oliveira, Guilherme Jorge Brigolini Silva
Summary: This study successfully develops a geopolymer using iron ore tailings and phosphoric acid as raw materials. The specimens cured at lower temperatures show better performance and can be used in the production of bricks, precast panels, and sidewalks. This is the first time that IOT and H3PO4 have been used to develop geopolymers.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Haoxuan Yu, Izni Zahidi, Chow Ming Fai
Summary: This paper suggests that abandoned tailings ponds can be transformed into fertile agricultural land through effective reclamation efforts. Serving as a discussion paper, it explores the environmental and health risks associated with tailings ponds, as well as the potential and obstacles in repurposing them for agriculture. The discussion concludes that while there are significant challenges, there are encouraging prospects with the implementation of comprehensive efforts.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Shujie Zhao, Ming Xia, Lin Yu, Xiao Huang, Binquan Jiao, Dongwei Li
Summary: This study solidified heavy metals in lead-zinc tailings using composite geopolymers, with samples with 70% LZT addition showing a significant decrease in strength, but still meeting construction application standards.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Construction & Building Technology
Zhao Qing Tang, Felipe Basquiroto de Souza, Roger J. Mulder, Wenhui Duan, Wenhui Duan
Summary: This study investigated the nucleation and growth mechanism of sodium aluminosilicate hydrate (NASH) gel in geopolymer concrete. The findings revealed the presence of intermediate phases, including prenucleation clusters and partially polymerized globules, before the formation of the geopolymeric network.
CEMENT AND CONCRETE RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Igor Crego Ferreira, Roberto Galery, Andreia Bicalho Henriques, Ana Paula de Carvalho Teixeira, Caroline Duarte Prates, Athos Silva Lima, Isnaldi R. Souza Filho
Summary: This study uses iron ore tailings as aggregates to produce geopolymer-based materials. The addition of iron ore tailings significantly improves the strength of the material.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Geological
Ricardo Gallardo, Esteban Saez, Fernando Lopez-Caballero
Summary: This article evaluates the mechanical stability of a filtered tailing pile by analyzing self-consolidation under unsaturated conditions. The results show that the proposed modeling strategy provides a reasonable approximation of laboratory paths. Additionally, faster deposition rates lead to a decrease in the factor of safety.
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Youqin Zou, Qun Li, Tao Tao, Pingyang Ye, Ping Zhang, Yaochi Liu
Summary: This study introduced a Fe-Mn binary oxides activated aluminosilicate minerals (FMAAM) for one step removal of thallium from aqueous solution. The FMAAM showed higher adsorption capacity and broader pH range compared to activated aluminosilicate minerals (AAM) through experimental results. The main forces for thallium removal were identified as ion exchange, oxidation and precipitation, and surface complexation.
JOURNAL OF SOLID STATE CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Inorganic & Nuclear
Olga Yu Golubeva, Yulia A. Alikina, Tamara Khamova, Elizaveta V. Vladimirova, Olga Shamova
Summary: The study introduces a simple one-step method for fabricating inorganic nanosponges with a kaolinite structure, highlighting the impact of synthesis conditions on the morphology of aluminosilicates. The research also explores the sorption capacity and pH sensitivity of the synthesized nanosponges, as well as their hemolytic activity. Additionally, the potential applications of aluminosilicate nanosponges in ecology and medicine, particularly as matrices for drug delivery systems, are discussed.
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Diling Yang, Lei Xie, Xiaohui Mao, Lu Gong, Xuwen Peng, Qiongyao Peng, Tao Wang, Qi Liu, Hongbo Zeng, Hao Zhang
Summary: The study found that the hydrophobic interaction of low molecular weight polystyrene with air bubbles or oil droplets is slightly weaker, and the interaction in aqueous solutions with alcohol additives is weaker than in pure aqueous solutions. The addition of surface-active species in the medium can suppress the attachment of hydrophobic polymers to air bubbles or oil droplets.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mingxia Liu, Hong Yu, Hanquan Zhang, Kaipeng Wang, Xiaoli Tan, Qi Liu
Summary: A controlled study was conducted to investigate the effects of different types of collectors on the flotation ability of niobium oxide minerals with various particle sizes. The study found that hydroxamate-based collectors outperformed carboxylate-based collectors in floating both coarse and fine pyrochlore, indicating the importance of a strong affinity hydrophilic group for effective fine particle flotation. Furthermore, the study revealed that the longer hydrocarbon chain of the collector benefited the flotation recovery of relatively coarse particles.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Dong Wang, Hongbiao Tao, Kaipeng Wang, Xiaoli Tan, Qi Liu
Summary: The dewatering of oil sands tailings is a challenging problem in the industry. This study investigates the filterability of different minerals and identifies swelling clays as the main reason for the poor filtration of oil sands tailings. Even small amounts of swelling clays significantly affect the filtration performance of other minerals.
Article
Energy & Fuels
Hanyu Zhang, Xiaoli Tan, Kaipeng Wang, Qi Liu
Summary: The charge characteristics of kaolinite samples coated with bitumen, asphaltene, or maltene were studied using electrodeposition. It was found that bitumen-coated and maltene-coated kaolinite deposited on the anode, while asphaltene-coated kaolinite deposited on both anode and cathode. The carboxyl groups in the organic coating layer were the main factor contributing to the negative charges of the coated kaolinite, with higher concentrations in bitumen and maltene coatings compared to asphaltene coating. XPS analyses confirmed the higher nitrogen content in the cathode-deposited organic-coated kaolinite films and the presence of carbon and sulfur species with higher oxidation states associated with oxygen in the anode-deposited films.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Xiaohui Mao, Ziqian Zhao, Diling Yang, Chenyu Qiao, Jinglin Tan, Qi Liu, Tian Tang, Hao Zhang, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: Oil contaminations pose challenges in various engineering and environmental fields. This study demonstrates the use of a small silane molecule (MD(SH)M) to functionalize fiber-based substrates for efficient oil decontamination processes. The functionalized substrates show excellent oil-water separation, absorption, and demulsification properties. The underlying interaction mechanisms are attributed to hydrophobic interactions.
SEPARATION AND PURIFICATION TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Qimeng Yang, Jae Bem You, Boran Tian, Shaofeng Sun, Dan Daniel, Qi Liu, Xuehua Zhang
Summary: This study focused on the adhesion of frozen oil sands to mining equipment and demonstrated the influence of water content and temperature on adhesion strength. A method involving spraying anti-freezing liquid was proposed to reduce adhesion strength.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tao Shui, Mingfei Pan, An Li, Hongbing Fan, Jianping Wu, Qi Liu, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: This study develops an innovative strategy to improve the long-term stability of hydrogels by incorporating mussel foot protein-inspired dynamic amine-catechol interactions. The resulting hydrogel exhibits superior isotropic tensile strength, ultratoughness, and resilience, surpassing most reported biocompatible hydrogels. Additionally, the hydrogel demonstrates diverse functionalities such as underwater adhesion and conductivity.
CHEMISTRY OF MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Yanjin Zheng, Feng Rao, Xiang Tian, Shengjian Lin
Summary: This study investigates the gel evolution and microstructure of geopolymers synthesized with volcanic ash and blast furnace slag. The results show that geopolymers with a 50% proportion of volcanic ash and blast furnace slag have higher compressive strength and form a homogeneous gel structure.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Liang Cao, Qi Liu, Yongjun Peng
Summary: This study aimed to determine whether the two widely used frothers, MIBC and DF250, could generate microbubbles (MBs) in a mechanical flotation cell. The results showed that both MIBC and DF250 could generate MBs, with DF250 producing more and smaller MBs. The generation of MBs by MIBC and DF250 was primarily controlled by their ability to reduce surface tension. The different behaviors of MIBC and DF250 were attributed to their unique structures, with DF250 having a stronger ability to assist with the generation of MBs.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR LIQUIDS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Xiaohui Mao, Feifei Wang, Baoshan Lu, Tian Tang, Qi Liu, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: In this study, a novel polymer nanoparticle PBM@PDM was synthesized and used as a demulsifier for stable water-in-oil (W/O) or oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions. PBM@PDM could immediately induce coalescence of water droplets and effectively release water in W/O emulsion. It also successfully destabilized O/W emulsion stabilized by asphaltenes.
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Dong Wang, Daowei Wang, Xiaoli Tan, Anthony Yeung, Qi Liu
Summary: The efficient dewatering of fluid fine tailings generated from warm-water extraction of Canadian oil sands is a major challenge that has limited the timely reclamation of the tailings. Both chemical amendments and physical/mechanical solid-liquid separation treatments are required to speed up the dewatering process. Efforts to enhance the rate of solid-liquid separation have had limited success, highlighting the need for a better fundamental understanding of the process. This review analyzes the factors contributing to the difficult dewatering of fluid fine tailings and suggests directions to accelerate the process.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qiuyi Lu, Zhoujie Wang, Jingyi Wang, Lei Xie, Qi Liu, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: Humic acid can form metal-HA complexes with a variety of divalent cations, and the interaction mechanism between them was studied at the nanoscale. The presence of Ca2+ enhances the aggregation and adhesion of HA, while excessive Ca2+ suppresses these behaviors. Cu2+ shows the highest adhesion energy due to its synergistic bonding with both oxygen and amine sites of HA.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Diling Yang, Ziqian Zhao, Lu Gong, Yongxiang Sun, Xuwen Peng, Qiongyao Peng, Tao Wang, Qi Liu, Hao Zhang, Hongbo Zeng
Summary: Research shows that the surface interactions between bubbles, oil, and interface-active species like asphaltenes have a significant impact on various engineering processes. Experimental studies have quantified the surface forces in different aqueous solutions and examined the effects of variables such as asphaltenes concentration, pH, salinity, Ca2+ ions, and surfactants.
JOURNAL OF COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Liang Cao, Yongjun Peng, Qi Liu
Summary: The interactions between NaCl and flotation frothers were studied, revealing a synergistic effect at low frother concentrations but an antagonistic effect at high concentrations. This effect can be explained by the possible interactions between NaCl and interfacial water molecules and frothers, as well as the compression effect of NaCl on the electrical double layers of air bubbles.
JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR LIQUIDS
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Daowei Wang, Dong Wang, Kaipeng Wang, Qi Liu
Summary: In this study, flocculation flotation of ultrafine hematite and quartz was conducted using a laboratory-scale flotation column. It was found that the TAN-PEO dual polymer system effectively reduced quartz entrainment and improved the flotation kinetics and recovery of hematite by OHA. The results showed that the reduction in quartz entrainment was influenced by the intensity of agitation. Additionally, a correlation was established between the mean floc size and the reduction in quartz entrainment.
MINERALS ENGINEERING
(2023)
