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January
2007 Progress Report To the Economic Development Administration
Research, Development, and Marketing of Minnesota’s Iron
Range Aggregate Materials for Midwest and National
Transportation
Applications
Project # 06-79-05068
Download a copy of NRRI_TSR_2007_01.pdf INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND Every year, Minnesota’s taconite mining industry generates over 125 million tons of mining byproducts, a figure that is more than double the entire state’s annual aggregate usage. Since 2000, the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI), University of Minnesota, Duluth, has been investigating how these vast quantities of taconite mining byproducts can be used for construction aggregate purposes on an expanded basis. The Economic Development Administration (EDA) is supporting a comprehensive three-year (2006-2008) research and demonstration program. The program’s main objectives are to: 1) identify new and economically viable uses for Minnesota Iron Range taconite aggregate material in road construction and repair projects; and 2) conduct demonstration projects inside and outside Minnesota, including several targeted Upper Midwest States. To assure program success, a cooperative and collaborative research approach is being taken, one which involves the staff and facilities of the University of Minnesota in Duluth and the Twin Cities; the Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/DOT); Minnesota state agencies and organizations; upper Midwest and Great Lakes state DOTs; the taconite industry; and other public and private sector transportation and aggregate industry professionals, organizations, and individuals. The program has two major phases. The first phase is aimed at assessing the resource and road construction market opportunity in terms of technical information on aggregate applications, unique properties and benefits, different mix designs and their attributes, alternative products and technologies, and to build awareness and interest in the expanded use of taconite aggregate products at the regional and national scale. Material transportation logistics and costs, and market opportunities and approaches to demonstrate taconite aggregate’s advantages will also be assessed during this first phase. The second phase will expand on the first phase findings and use them as a guide for demonstrating the actual use of taconite aggregate products on a larger scale throughout Minnesota and the Midwest in a variety of potential construction applications. Technical work will continue on an expanded basis, as will further investigation and demonstration of innovative products and technologies. Program Funding and Budget:
January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2008
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