Effects of sulphuric-acid attack and chloride-ion penetration on cement mortar with copper tailings: mechanical properties and technical considerations for uses in shotcrete

Specimens of concrete were produced with copper tailings replacing 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% of aggregates. The specimens were then cured in lime-saturated water and exposed to aggressive aqueous solutions of sulfuric acid and sodium chloride. The copper tailings incorporated into the mortar at ranges between 10% and 40% improve the microstructure of the mortars, and show some resistance to chloride penetration and sulfuric acid attack. These findings suggest that copper tailings could be a viable and sustainable alternative material in construction, specifically in mining construction applications, offering an effective way to recycle mining tailings without posing environmental risks.