Taconite-Based Pavement Patch

Developing a durable road repair patch utilizing taconite tailings, the waste rock left over from the iron ore mines on Minnesota's Iron Range.

Overview

Utilizing waste taconite rock from Minnesota's Iron Range, NRRI researchers have created a durable, weather-resistant pothole patch currently being tested on Northland roadways. The product is designed to harden into a durable patch in about 10-20 minutes, depending on weather conditions. NRRI researchers will be able to make changes to the formula, once they see how it responds to real-world conditions. Patches that last longer could save cities hundreds of thousands of dollars each year. And fewer potholes would make countless motorists happier.

Goal

To reduce waste and find value in our natural resources.

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