Delithiated beta spodumene as a sustainable binder in cemented paste backfill: case study

A crucial component of cemented paste backfill (CPB) is the binder, which provides cohesion and strength to the backfill material. The choice of binder significantly influences the performance, cost and sustainability of CPB. Traditional binders can be expensive and contribute to a higher carbon footprint. Supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash and slag can be incorporated as a sustainable alternative into the binder mix. These materials improve CPB’s performance and help reduce costs and environmental impact by utilising industrial byproducts. Delithiated beta spodumene (DBS), a novel alternative, exhibits desirable properties such as a pozzolanic nature and high reactivity, positioning it as a potential sustainable binder for CPB. This paper presents a case study demonstrating the successful application of DBS-based CPB at the Nova mining operation in Western Australia. This study highlights the potential of DBS as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly binder alternative for CPB applications. The performance of surface and underground infrastructures was evaluated using this new binder, yielding successful outcomes. This investigation included the performance of the binder dosing system, flowability of the dry product in the cement silos, mixing quality and pressure on the mixer motor, and underground reticulation performance. Implementing DBS-based CPB at the Nova mining operation sets a precedent for future trials and potential widespread adoption in the mining industry, contributing to more sustainable and efficient mining practices. The findings suggest that using DBS as a binder can lead to improved resource utilisation and reduced environmental impact, paving the way for a more sustainable mining industry.