Run-of-mine bauxite processing residue recovery from the mining industry for the production of artificial aggregate geopolymer paste

Abstract

Rising global construction demand led to natural aggregate overexploitation and environmental degradation. Using run-of-mine bauxite processing residue (RBPR) as artificial aggregate offers sustainable construction solutions while supporting Sustainable Development Goals No. 9 (Innovation and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities), and 12 (Responsible Consumption). RBPR was produced into artificial aggregate geopolymer paste (AAGP) using mold casting and thermal methods. XRD, FTIR, and SEM-EDS analyses confirmed geopolymer essential minerals in AAGP, indicating successful sodium aluminosilicate gel formation, the fundamental binding phase in geopolymers. AAGP compressive strengths exceed 12 MPa, and total CO₂ emissions from its production were 1.786–2.992 kg CO₂/kg material.