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Zinc Speciation in Fine and Coarse Fly Ash Particles Collected In-Flight at a Waste Incinerator
Evelina Gorjatšova1,2, Fanny Bergman1,2, Kajsa G V Sigfridsson Clauss3
1Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, Department of Design Sciences, Lund University, Lund SE-22100, Sweden.
ACS Environmental Au
|March 23, 2026
Summary
Waste-to-energy fly ash characterization reveals distinct zinc forms in fine and coarse particles. Understanding these chemical forms is key for efficient recycling and resource recovery.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Waste-to-energy (WtE) fly ash (FA) contains valuable metals, but its safe utilization depends on understanding metal speciation.
- Zinc (Zn) is a key metal of concern in FA, with its chemical form influencing environmental impact and recovery potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively analyze the chemical form and distribution of zinc (Zn) in fine (<1 μm) and coarse (>1 μm) fly ash particles.
- To investigate the influence of particle size on the physicochemical properties and Zn speciation in WtE fly ash.
- To provide data supporting optimized strategies for FA recycling and resource recovery.
Main Methods:
- Size-selective aerosol sampling from WtE flue gas, air pollution control filters, and boiler deposits.
- Synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) for primary Zn speciation analysis.
- Complementary techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and total elemental analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in elemental composition, crystalline phases, and Zn chemical forms between fine and coarse FA particles.
- Fine particles (<1 μm) were rich in Cl, K, and Na, with Zn predominantly as potassium zinc chlorides.
- Coarse particles (>1 μm) showed heterogeneous composition with stable Zn forms (aluminate, ferrite, silicates) and major Ca, Si, Al content.
- Approximately 50% of the total Zn was found in the fine particle fraction, despite coarse particles comprising the major FA mass.
Conclusions:
- Particle size critically influences the physicochemical properties and Zn speciation in WtE fly ash.
- Fine particles offer a targeted source for Zn extraction due to its specific chemical form.
- Coarse, Ca-rich particles have potential for use in construction materials, promoting circular economy principles.
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