Potential of lead/zinc slag for use in cemented mine backfill

This paper gives the results of tests for the replacement of Portland cement in blended cement, by ground granulated lead/zinc slag. It is part of a wider programme to investigate the potential use of available granulated lead/zinc slag in cemented mine paste backfill. The results show that the slag gives similar compressive strength of standard mortar to granulated iron blast furnace slag. It appears to be more active requiring less grinding. On the other hand, there is evidence for the retardation of setting times and strength growth by the high zinc content in the slag. Zinc in the cement and in tailings used for the paste could limit the use of the lead/zinc slag and even iron blast furnace slag as cementing material in mine paste backfill.