What was investigated
Golev and colleagues combine a Brucutu iron-ore case study, material tests, a screening life-cycle assessment and an analysis of possible sand markets.
What the tests found
The sampled material was a very angular, silty fine sand. The authors report 89.7–90.8% silica and 21–22 wt.% particles below 75 µm. They identify the high fines content as a constraint for some uses and propose testing blends with coarser sand.
Assumptions and limits
The life-cycle model assumes substitution does not change product performance or service life. Transport and allocation choices affect the results. The authors say the screening assessment is insufficient for public comparative product claims. Durability testing in their material programme was limited to shear testing.
Authors’ recommendations
They call for application-specific testing, evaluation of different ores and processing routes, and assessment of local markets and environmental effects.
Original publication
DOI: 10.14264/503a3fd