Iron Ore Tailings (IOTs), the by-product of beneficiation processes, represent a major solid
waste challenge in iron ore-producing nations. With increasing mining activities globally and
mounting concerns over tailings dam failures, there is a pressing need to explore sustainable
disposal and utilization alternatives. This research critically investigates the potential use of
IOTs as an eco-friendly and structurally competent backfill material for retaining wall systems.
The study involves comprehensive characterization of IOTs sourced from Barsua and Bolani
iron ore mines in India. Laboratory tests assessed physical, chemical, mineralogical, and
geotechnical properties, including particle size distribution, specific gravity, compaction
characteristics, permeability, and shear strength. Chemical leaching and physicochemical
analyses confirmed the environmental safety of IOTs, with all toxic elements found within
permissible limits.
Three distinct mix designs were proposed for future analysis and a comparative analysis of
100% IOTs material with conventional sand backfill using Slide2 (LEM) and RS2 (FEM)
software revealed that IOTs consistently outperformed sand in both Factor of Safety (FoS) and
Strength Reduction Factor (SRF), even under saturated conditions. The findings demonstrate
that IOTs can serve as a reliable substitute for natural backfill materials in retaining walls,
offering high shear strength, structural stability, and environmental compliance. This
contributes not only to waste valorisation and resource conservation but also to the
advancement of sustainable geotechnical engineering practices in the mining sector.

Keywords: Iron Ore Tailings, Retaining Wall Backfill, Sustainable Construction, Geotechnical
Properties, Numerical Modelling, Mix Design, Waste Utilization