Submit an Article
Become a reviewer
Vladimir A. Sidorov
Vladimir A. Sidorov
Postgraduate Student
Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University
Postgraduate Student
Empress Catherine ΙΙ Saint Petersburg Mining University
Saint Petersburg
Russia

Co-authors

Articles

Article
Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology
  • Date submitted
    2025-11-28
  • Date accepted
    2026-04-28
  • Online publication date
    2026-06-24

A study of grouting mortars using chromium-containing catalyst sludge for well cementing in permafrost zones

Article preview

This article presents an experimental study of the effect of chromium (III) oxide, recovered from chromium-containing catalyst sludge, on the properties of grouting mortars used for well cementing in permafrost zones. The necessity of modifying grouting mortars to increase the strength of the cement stone for intervals in permafrost formations is justified. A method for reducing Cr(VI) to the stable form Cr(III) has been developed, and Cr2O3 has been obtained for use as an active mineral additive. Four grouting mixture compositions are considered: a base mixture, commonly used at sites, based on Portland cement with a setting accelerator; a mixture based on Portland cement; a mixture based on Portland cement with the addition of chromium (III) oxide; and a mixture based on Portland cement with calcium chloride and the addition of chromium (III) oxide. The experiments include testing of the four compositions at two water-to-solid ratios (W/S = 0.4 and 0.5) with an assessment of flowability, compressive and flexural strength, microstructure (microtomography, SEM) and phase composition (XRD) at normal and sub-zero temperatures, including cyclic temperature changes. The data obtained show that at W/S = 0.5, the addition of Cr2O3 increases the compressive and flexural strength of the cement stone; a reduction in the content of free Ca(OH)2 is observed, the proportion of calcium silicate hydrates (CSH) increases, and a more homogeneous and dense microstructure is evident. This modification increases the flowability of the grout, which facilitates better replacement of the drilling fluid. The use of Cr2O3 to improve the durability and watertightness of support structures in cryolithozone conditions is clearly advisable.

How to cite: Kuchin V.N., Buslaev G.V., Sidorov V.A., Zubkova O.S. A study of grouting mortars using chromium-containing catalyst sludge for well cementing in permafrost zones // Journal of Mining Institute. 2026. Vol. 280. p. 37-46.