AP26197535 – Development of geopolymer composites on the basis of metallurgical wastes

Objective of the project – to develop and optimize technologies for the production of geopolymers based on metallurgical waste to create environmentally friendly, durable and sustainable building materials with minimal environmental impact.

Relevance: The relevance of the project is driven by the need for efficient utilization of technogenic mineral waste (old tailings from processing plants), which accumulate in large volumes and represent a potential source of valuable raw materials. The involvement of these wastes in industrial production helps reduce the burden on natural resources and ensures the preservation of the raw material base. Under conditions of depletion of high-quality deposits, there is an increasing need to develop economically viable technologies for processing secondary resources. The application of ultrafine grinding enables more complete liberation of valuable minerals in tailings and improves their recovery efficiency. The use of modern beneficiation methods, including the Jameson Cell flotation machine, allows optimization of technological parameters and increases the yield of valuable components. The implementation of the project contributes not only to environmental safety but also to the growth of the country’s economic potential, the creation of new jobs, and the improvement of workforce qualifications.

Scientific supervisor: Ph.D., Head of Department, Amitova Aigul

Expected and achieved results: The study confirmed the feasibility of effectively using metallurgical waste, such as red mud and microsilica, for the production of geopolymer composites. It was established that the obtained materials have a dense structure and form N–A–S–H type aluminosilicate bonds, which ensure their strength characteristics. The influence of the composition and concentration of alkaline activators on the structure and phase composition of geopolymers was also identified. This made it possible to scientifically justify approaches to controlling material properties depending on their intended application. It is expected that the developed geopolymers will exhibit high strength, durability, and resistance to external influence. The use of metallurgical waste in their composition will reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency in the construction and chemical industries. In addition, the use of secondary resources will reduce the cost of material production. Overall, the project results create the basis for the implementation of environmentally friendly and economically efficient technologies for geopolymer production.