Effect of the Incorporation of Iron Ore Tailings on the Properties of Clay Bricks

The high production of iron ore in Brazil leads to the generation of large amount of iron ore tailings (IOTs). Usually, this waste is disposed of in dams, but this choice offers environmental and security problems. Fundao dam accident that occurred in Mariana, Brazil, is an example of the potential damage of this solution. About 30 million m3 of IOTs left the structure, causing devastation of a large area. Therefore, alternatives for removal and reuse should be investigated. This work aims to evaluate the use of IOTs as raw material in red ceramic Prismatic bricks were produced from a conventional clay and the following amounts of IOTs: 0, 5, 10, 20, 30 and 50%. Physical and mechanical characterization was performed after the firing process. The results showed that addition of waste reduced water absorption, apparent porosity and mechanical strength The incorporation of up to 20% can be accepted, maintaining product quality. The study proves the technical feasibility of using IOTs, configuring a sustainable alternative for its recycling.