Mine Tailings as a Sustainable Filler for Asphalt Binder-Mastics: A Review.

Sustainability has become a primary focus on a global scale. However, there is a threat to sustainable development due to the substantial generation of waste from urbanization and industrialization. Particularly, the accumulation of mine tailings is a problem, an industrial waste by-product from the mining sector. To support sustainable development and promote circular economy, it is imperative to utilize the materials in the production of asphalt mastics. This review examines the performance of mining waste-modified asphalt binder-mastic to create an idea of what tailings might be used for in subsequent studies. This review contributes to knowledge by consolidating research efforts on mine tailing-modified asphalt binder-mastics, tailings characteristics for intended usage and the possibility of improved blends. The findings show that the mine tailings improve the physical and rheological properties of asphalt binder-mastic compared to conventional fillers, thereby contributing to more durable and sustainable pavements. Also, the mine tailings are environmentally friendly and economically viable, making them a potential alternative filler to substitute the traditional fillers. The review concluded by outlining the limitations of using tailings and suggested future directions for large-scale utilization of tailings in asphalt binder-mastics.