Experimental Investigation on the Effect of Gold Tailings as a Partial Replacement for Sand in Concrete

Abstract

This study explores the use of secondary gold tailings (SGTs) in concrete production to solve sand sustainability issues. This approach addresses waste issues and presents a sustainable material alternative to conventional sand, investigating different SGT proportions (ranging from 0% to 100%) to replace fine aggregate in structural concrete. This study examined the fresh, mechanical, and durability properties of concrete containing SGTs. Incorporating SGTs reduced the concrete’s workability, but up to a 75% replacement level resulted in a high fresh concrete density compared with the reference concrete. The results indicated that up to 25% replacement level increased the compressive strength and up to 50% replacement level improved the splitting tensile strength compared with reference concrete. However, all concretes containing SGTs exhibited satisfactory strengths. The statistical analysis confirmed the significant influence of SGTs on concrete strength. In addition, the durability results of the concrete demonstrated good resistance to oxygen, water, and chloride penetration, indicating good concrete quality. SGTs are recommended as a substitute for crusher sand to reduce production costs, conserve natural resources, and promote a sustainable and greener environment.