Journal of Advances in Civil and Mechanical Engineering
ISSN: 3067-2457 | DOI: 10.64030/3067-2457
Norasyimah Ahmad, Khairunisa Muthusamy and Nor Rashidah Bahar
Sand mining leads to various environmental issues due to the extensive use of sand in cement mortar production. Concurrently, tin tailing (TT), a mining industry byproduct, accumulate rapidly and contribute to environmental pollution when disposed of in dumping sites. This study explores the sustainable recycling of TT by partially replacing fine aggregates in mortar and examines the influence of curing methods on the compressive strength of TT-incorporated mortar. Mortar specimens with varying TT replacement levels (0–100%) were cured under two conditions: air curing and water curing, and tested at 7, 28, 60, 90, and 180 days. Results demonstrate that water curing significantly improves compressive strength compared to air curing, attributed to enhanced hydration. An optimal TT replacement of 20% was identified, providing the highest strength under both curing regimes, while higher TT contents led to strength reductions due to altered microstructure and moisture behavior. These findings underscore the importance of curing techniques in optimizing the mechanical performance of TT- based mortars and support the environmentally responsible reuse of mining waste, reducing reliance on natural sand and promoting sustainable construction practices.