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Valorized deinking paper residue as fill material for geotechnical structures
Karmen Fifer Bizjak1, Barbara Likar1, Ana Mladenovič1
1Slovenian National Building and Civil Engineering Institute, Dimičeva 12, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Scientific Reports
|November 17, 2021
Summary
New geotechnical composites using paper industry waste, deinking paper sludge ash (DPSA) and deinking paper sludge (DPS), show promise for landslide control and thinner retaining walls. These materials are stable for up to 24 hours after mixing, offering environmental benefits.
Area of Science:
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Waste Valorization
Background:
- The pulp and paper industry generates significant waste streams, including deinking paper sludge ash (DPSA) and deinking paper sludge (DPS).
- There is a growing need for sustainable construction materials derived from industrial byproducts to reduce reliance on natural resources and minimize landfill waste.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel geotechnical composite material utilizing DPSA and DPS for construction applications.
- To assess the mechanical properties, installation feasibility, and environmental benefits of these paper industry waste-derived composites.
Main Methods:
- Five composite mixtures with varying DPSA and DPS ratios were prepared and analyzed.
- Selected composites underwent uniaxial compressive strength and elasticity testing.
- Field tests were conducted to evaluate installation procedures and material stability over time.
- A case study of a retaining wall constructed with a DPSA-DPS composite was analyzed.
Main Results:
- Composites with 80% and 70% DPSA demonstrated sufficient elasticity for minor landslide deformations and high uniaxial compressive strength.
- The composites exhibited low maximum dry density, leading to reduced settlements.
- Enhanced shear characteristics allow for the construction of thinner retaining walls.
- Field tests confirmed the composites' stability for installation up to 24 hours after mixing.
Conclusions:
- Geotechnical composites made from DPSA and DPS offer a sustainable and effective alternative for construction, particularly in landslide mitigation and retaining wall applications.
- The successful field implementation validates the practical usability of these materials.
- The use of these waste-derived composites contributes to circular economy principles, reducing landfill burden and conserving natural resources, with associated CO2 emission reductions.
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