Rare Mineral By-products Propel Sustainable Concrete Innovation

Introduction

Researchers at Flinders University have unveiled a groundbreaking sustainable construction material derived from mining waste, potentially revolutionizing concrete production. Dr. Aliakbar Gholampour and his team focused on Delithiated β-spodumene (DβS), a by-product of lithium refining, which exhibits pozzolanic properties that strengthen and enhance the durability of geopolymer concrete.

What is Delithiated β-spodumene (DβS)?

DβS is a rare mineral residue left after lithium extraction processes. It chemically reacts within geopolymer binders used in concrete, improving mechanical properties and long-term resilience. This innovation leverages industrial waste to create superior concrete materials.

Environmental Urgency

Concrete is the most-produced man-made material globally, with approximately 25 billion metric tons used annually. Its production consumes 30% of non-renewable natural resources and accounts for about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, conventional concrete waste constitutes up to 50% of landfill mass worldwide. Therefore, alternatives that maintain structural integrity while reducing environmental footprint are critical.

Research Findings

• DβS as a Fly Ash Alternative: The study demonstrated that DβS can replace fly ash (a coal combustion by-product) in geopolymer concrete, offering improved mechanical strength and durability.
• Optimized Chemical Ratios: Analysis of Na₂SiO₃-to-NaOH alkaline activator ratios revealed critical insights into maximizing performance and microstructural stability of DβS-based mixes.
• Waste Diversion and Circular Economy: Utilizing DβS in construction prevents landfill disposal, mitigates soil and groundwater contamination risks, and fosters circular economic practices between mining and building industries.

Broader Research Context

Dr. Gholampour’s team integrates advanced technologies like machine learning and 3D printing to develop eco-friendly construction materials. Recent studies include:

• Enhancements in fiber-reinforced geopolymers incorporating industrial slags.
• Predictive models using XGBoost-SHAP for eco-friendly concrete performance.
• Hybrid machine learning frameworks for 3D-printed fiber-reinforced concrete strength prediction.

Collaborations with international experts further extend this work to recycled aggregate concrete and carbonation depth prediction, reinforcing a holistic approach to sustainable construction.

Impact and Future Outlook

The research published in prestigious journals (Materials and Structures and Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering) underscores DβS’s potential to:

• Reduce reliance on non-renewable resources.
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with conventional concrete.
• Introduce durable, high-performance materials compatible with green building standards.

As lithium refining waste continues to increase globally due to rising demand for batteries, repurposing DβS offers a scalable route to sustainable construction innovations.

References

• Kiamahalleh, M.V. et al. (2025). Advanced characterization of ambient-cured geopolymer paste with delithiated β-Spodumene. Materials and Structures. DOI: 10.1617/s11527-025-02789-5
• Kiamahalleh, M.V. et al. (2026). Reactions, phase evolution, and microstructure of ambient-cured geopolymer with delithiated β-spodumene. Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering. DOI: 10.1061/jmcee7.mteng-21163

By transforming lithium mining by-products into valuable construction ingredients, Flinders University’s research exemplifies innovation that harmonizes industrial progress with ecological stewardship.

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