NRRI > By-Product Aggregate, Minnesota Mining Cluster - The Next Generation of Innovation
Last Update Sun Mar 3 15:59:00 CST 2013
The program will focus on near-term implementation projects that introduce aggregate materials to targeted markets in project-sized quantities, value-added commercialization opportunities, and promising avenues of taconite-based applied research. The program includes: • An accelerated aggregate material qualification/certification program; • Development & deployment of mix and pavement designs using high quality taconite aggregate materials in their upper wear courses; • Production of value-added products from coarse taconite tailings, such as high friction bridge deck and airport runway surfacing aggregates; • Further development and implementation of innovative concepts, products and technologies such as: pothole/paving compounds and pursuing microwave-based technologies for all-season pothole and pavement repair; energy-absorbing materials for possible defense applications; and UV, solar, and geothermal heating and energy storage. This project area is highly dependent on private sector/private sector and private sector/public sector interactions, negotiations, and timetables. Collaboration with private and public sectors at local, state, and national levels will be a key for implementing these activities and leveraging project resources.2nd Half 2012 Highlights: 1)Friction aggregate plant operational 2)Continued interest in cement making 3)Texas interest in aggregate 4)Repair technology field testing 5)Potential paving project locations ID'd 6)Product development
Construction materials and value-added aggregate by-products and co-products from mining have potential for economic development and immediate job creation in Northeastern Minnesota. Expanding the use of (and deriving value from) these byproduct and co-product materials is one leg of a three-legged strategy for long-term economic stability and competitiveness of iron ore mining and steel-making industries. This strategy also contributes to sustainability in that it maximizes resource utilization while contributing to reduced energy consumption.
The following areas/activities are being investigated/pursued by NRRI: (1) Value-added friction aggregates: work closely with a local entrepreneur whose goal is to become a specialty friction product supplier for regional and national paving needs, and a producer of other sized specialty products. The production facility would be located on Minnesota’s Mesabi Iron Range. The entrepreneur has begun ordering equipment. (2) Pavement repair materials and technologies: Develop and test products (road repair compounds) and technologies (e.g., microwave) underway. (3) Cement manufacturing: Lab testing showed taconite tailings would work as a raw material replacement for cement makers on the Great Lakes. Discussions continue regarding next steps and potential scale-up of testing. (4) Frac sand potential: Preliminary testing has been performed. (5) Other product development: Interest shown in two different value-added products that require silica.
Start Date 10/01/2011
End Date 09/30/2013
Steven Hauck undefined