Abstract:This study investigates the strength development of autoclaved materials prepared by completely replacing quartz sand with iron tailings under different autoclaving temperatures and constant-temperature durations. The phase composition and microstructure of hydration products were analyzed using XRD, SEM, and EDS. The results show that the optimal autoclaving regime is 180 °C for 5 h. The primary phases formed during autoclaving include C-S-H(Ⅰ), C-S-H(Ⅱ), and tobermorite, with calcium silicate hydrate exhibiting various morphologies such as flocculent, needle-like, square-plate, and stick-like structures. The growth and decline of tobermorite align with the increase and decrease in compressive strength, confirming that tobermorite is the key phase governing strength development. The phase evolution and strength formation of autoclaved materials can be divided into four stages: initial synthesis, intermediate development, peak maturity, and decline. The phase composition, microstructure, and material strength evolve with the autoclaving regime.