Waste for building material production as a method of reducing environmental load and energy recovery

Abstract

Proper treatment and recycling of waste are crucial for the natural environment. Biowaste and ash might be used for ceramic building material production. Reduction in the amount of waste leads to the smaller burden on the environment, and it can also offer recovery of energy. This paper presents the results of an experimental study of the compressive strength of samples made from clay with waste additives: ash and sewage sludge. It was proven that the increasing amount of the waste materials decreases strength properties in all incineration temperatures. Scanning electron microscopy analysis was used to determine the internal structure of the samples. Tests of heavy metal leaching revealed that the concentration of copper, chromium, nickel, and zinc in leachate generally decreased with an increase in sintering temperature. Moreover, the level of chromium was observed to exceed the permissible level.