Inertization of Industrial Wastes in Ceramic Materials

摘要

Dust from steelworks, galvanic bath sludge and residues from mechanical brakes constitute a source of environmental contamination due to their high content of heavy metals. Here we attempt to inactivate and utilize these residues by incorporating them in a ceramic matrix. We describe the evolution of contaminating elements with temperature and their inclusion as solid solutions in the mineral phases formed in the matrix. The cristallochemical properties of these are modified in the new phases formed. Such phases act as receiving structures for the hazardous elements. Moreover, the ceramic parameters (plasticity, firing behaviour, dilatometric characteristics, colour and mechanical properties) are improved by using the original clay mixed with these industrial residues.