Research, Development, and Marketing of Minnesota’s Iron Range Aggregate Materials for Midwest and National Transportation Applications: Final Compendium Report to the Economic Development Administration

Abstract

From January 1, 2006 to June 30, 2010, a comprehensive taconite aggregate research and demonstration program was undertaken. The program’s main objectives were to: • identify new and economically viable uses for Minnesota Iron Range taconite aggregate material in road construction and repair projects; and • conduct demonstration projects inside and outside Minnesota, including targeted Upper Midwest States. To assure program success, a cooperative and collaborative research approach was taken using expertise from both public and private entities. The program proceeded in two major phases. The first phase aimed at assessing the resource and road construction market opportunity in terms of technical information on aggregate applications, unique properties and benefits, different mix designs and attributes, alternative products and technologies, and to build awareness and interest in the expanded use of taconite aggregate products at the regional and national scale. Material logistics and costs, and market opportunities and approaches to demonstrate taconite aggregate’s advantages were also assessed during this first phase. The second phase expanded on the first phase findings and used them as a guide for demonstrating the actual use of taconite aggregate products on a larger scale throughout Minnesota and the Midwest in potential construction applications. The geologic characteristics of potential aggregate materials on Minnesota’s Mesabi Iron Range were characterized on a broad basis during both phases.