Complete physico-chemical characterisation of foundry waste

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Environmental Engineering
• Waste Management

Background:

• Foundry operations generate diverse mineral wastes beyond sand, with limited recycling solutions.
• Current waste management primarily involves landfilling, leading to environmental concerns.
• Existing research focuses on foundry sand recycling, neglecting finer waste fractions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively characterize various foundry wastes (FW) to identify viable recycling pathways.
• To bridge the knowledge gap regarding the composition and properties of non-sand foundry wastes.
• To assess the potential of these wastes for use in cementitious applications.

Main Methods:

• Characterization using X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetry.
• Leaching tests conducted according to the NF EN 12457-2 standard to determine pollution levels.
• Analysis of five distinct waste types from two different foundries.

Main Results:

• Foundries produce multiple types of waste, not just sand.
• Each analyzed sand exhibited unique characteristics.
• The two foundries showed similarities in their waste material composition.
• Leaching tests provided crucial data on the environmental pollution degree of the wastes.

Conclusions:

• Complete characterization enhances understanding of foundry waste chemical composition and pollution.
• Foundry wastes can be effectively utilized in cement blends for concrete and mortars.
• Recycling these wastes offers a sustainable alternative to landfilling, mitigating environmental impact.