Unlocking the Potential: Recycling Mine Tailings for Regenerative Sustainability in Cementitious Construction Materials

Due to the complex chemical composition, acid generation potential and the long-term stability, the mine tailings, generated through the production of mines, are threatening the environmental sustainability and public health compared to the other conventional waste types. Effective management strategies, remediation efforts, and regulatory measures are vital to mitigate these risks and minimize the ecological impacts of mine tailings. However, the conventional recycling methods could possess several technical and economic factors that adversely affect the feasibility of this action. Addressing these challenges necessitate innovative approaches, collaborative efforts among stakeholders as well as tailored solutions encompassing characteristics of the particular mine tailings and the local context.

The study aims to unlock the potential of mine tailings to be recycled in cementitious materials in construction practice to further mitigate the carbon and energy intensive operation of binder and aggregate productions which are adversely influencing the global warming and the associated climate change patterns. The study therefore aims to conduct a comprehensive characterisation study to classify the potential use of these tailings as well as to explore the necessity of further treatments for an improved engagement in cementitious matrix. The study aims to conduct a broad experimental program that investigates the growing potential of such tailings for enhanced properties and durability as well as the regenerative recycling approach of mine tailings compared to the other conventional waste management methods through the life cycle approach.

The study impacts the development of innovative construction materials with reduced demand on cement production that reinforces the zero net thinking in accordance with circular economy of civil engineering materials. The study on the other hand, also enlightens the greener recycling routes for mine tailings and therefore also plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy ecosystem of the immediate environment as well as sustaining the economic growth of the localities.

Eligibility

This project is open to all students, whether home, EU or overseas.

The successful candidate will have at least an upper second-class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree and ideally a Masters degree in a relevant subject.

How to Apply

To apply you must complete our online application form.

Please select PhD Civil Engineering as the programme and include the full project title, reference number and supervisor name on your application form. Ensure that all fields marked as ‘required’ are complete.

Once have entered your personal details, click submit. You will be asked to upload your supporting documents. You must complete the section marked project proposal; provide a supporting statement (1-2 A4 pages) documenting your reasons for applying to this particular project, outlining your suitability and how you would approach the project. You must also upload your CV, a copy of your degree certificate and relevant transcripts and an academic reference in the relevant section of the application form.

You must also provide proof of your ability in the English language (if English is not your mother tongue). We require an IELTS certificate showing an overall score of at least 6.5 with no component scoring less than 6.0, or a TOEFL certificate with an overall score of at least 85, including reading 20, listening 19, speaking 20 and writing 21. Alternatively, if you have received an English-taught Bachelors or Masters degree from one of the countries listed on the UK Government Guidance under ‘Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English’, and it was obtained less than two years from your intended start date, you should provide evidence of your award that clearly states it was delivered and assessed in English language.

The primary supervisor for this project is Dr Ceren Ince. Please contact [email protected] for further information or an informal discussion.

Please contact [email protected] for technical support with your application.

Timeline

The closing date for applications is 15 April 2024 and applicants must be available to start in September 2024.