The effect of hard coal fly ash substitution for cement on properties of high sulphide tailings cemented paste backfill

Cemented paste backfill (CPB) is a method used to fill the gaps in the underground production method. The main component of CPB is cement, which costs a high price. Therefore, some studies have continued in the search for materials to replace cement. In this context, the mechanical behavior of the material obtained following the substitution of ore preparation plant tailings from KastamonuKüre copper mine instead of cement using thermal power plant fly ash (FA) in certain proportions by weight was investigated. The results indicate that substituting FA in all cement proportions increases the compressive strength of the CBP mixtures. Up to 20% of the amount and cost of cement has been saved by using FA instead of portland cement (PC). Thus, there is an opportunity for a reduction in the amount of CO₂ emissions, a greenhouse gas, from the cement production process. Besides, an economic income was provided to the enterprise by reusing coal thermal power plant waste. As a result, significant benefits have been provided to the mining sector in terms of operation, environment, and cost.