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Efficient Management of Asbestos Waste Through Utilization as Mineral Additives in Portland Cement Production
This article presents research on the effectiveness of utilizing asbestos waste, particularly chrysotile asbestos, in the production of Portland cement. The study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of transforming asbestos cement (Eternit) through thermal treatment and its enrichment with mineral additives, enabling its integration into the clinker synthesis process. Differences in the physicochemical properties of types of cement produced from conventional raw materials and those manufactured using asbestos waste were analyzed. The research findings indicate that the presence of asbestos in cementitious materials leads to a significant mass loss of 29.4% due to thermal decomposition. Chemical analysis revealed the presence of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and iron oxide (Fe2O3) at levels of 4.10% and 3.54%, respectively, suggesting the formation of brownmillerite, a phase typical of cement clinker. Furthermore, compressive strength tests on asbestos-modified cements demonstrated comparable mechanical properties to reference cement (CEM I), indicating their potential applicability in construction. This study provides essential insights into the mineralogical composition of asbestos cement, which is crucial for developing effective methods for its safe disposal. It represents a significant step toward sustainable asbestos waste management and the promotion of innovative solutions in the construction industry.
Cement Carbonation Under Fermentation Conditions as a Tool for CO2 Emission Management—Technological, Environmental and Economic Analysis
The aim of this study is an interdisciplinary assessment of the potential of cement pastes to permanently bind carbon dioxide (CO2) under anaerobic digestion conditions, considering technological, microstructural, environmental, and economic aspects. The research focused on three types of Portland cement: CEM I 52.5N, CEM I 42.5R-1, and CEM I 42.5R-2, differing in phase composition and reactivity, which were evaluated in terms of their carbonation potential and resistance to chemically aggressive environments. The cement pastes were prepared with a water-to-cement ratio of 0.5 and subjected to 90-day exposure in two environments: a reference environment (tap water) and a fermentation environment (aqueous suspension of poultry manure simulating biogas reactor conditions). XRD, TG/DTA, SEM/EDS, and mercury intrusion porosimetry were applied to analyze CO2 mineralization, phase changes, and microstructural evolution. XRD results revealed a significant increase in calcite content (e.g., for CEM I 52.5N from 5.9% to 41.1%) and the presence of vaterite (19.3%), indicating intense carbonation under organic conditions. TG/DTA analysis confirmed a reduction in portlandite and C-S-H phases, suggesting their transformation into stable carbonate forms. SEM observations and EDS analysis revealed well-developed calcite crystals and the dominance of Ca, C, and O, confirming effective CO2 binding. In control samples, hydration products predominated without signs of mineralization. The highest sequestration potential was observed for CEM I 52.5N, while cements with higher C3A content (e.g., CEM I 42.5R-2) exhibited lower chemical resistance. The results confirm that carbonation under fermentation conditions may serve as an effective tool for CO2 emission management, contributing to improved durability of construction materials and generating measurable economic benefits in the context of climate policy and the EU ETS. The article highlights the need to integrate CO2 sequestration technologies with emission management systems and life cycle assessment (LCA) of biogas infrastructure, supporting the transition toward a low-carbon economy.
The Energy Footprint in the EU: How CO2 Emission Reductions Drive Sustainable Development
Understanding how sectoral CO2 emissions shape sustainable development outcomes is essential for designing effective energy and economic strategies within the European Union (EU). This study presents a multidimensional analysis of CO2 emissions, the contributions of individual sectors, and their connections to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using Bayesian network analysis, the research identifies significant interdependencies between emission reductions and progress in sustainable development, highlighting the complex relationship between energy transition, economic growth, and social justice. The findings show that total CO2 emissions in the EU have decreased since 1990; however, the rate of reduction varies across sectors and member states. The most substantial decreases have been recorded in the energy sector, while industrial processes and agriculture show slower progress. Economic crises, such as the 2008 financial collapse and the COVID-19 pandemic, have led to temporary declines in emissions; however, lasting achievements in sustainability require structural transformations rather than short-term disruptions. The Bayesian model reveals strong connections between emission reductions and progress on clean energy (SDG 7), responsible consumption (SDG 12), and climate action (SDG 13), while also indicating indirect impacts on economic growth (SDG 8) and social equity. This highlights the importance of integrated policymaking to maximise the benefits of sustainable development. This study provides a data-driven foundation for enhancing EU climate strategies, ensuring that emission reductions support environmental goals, economic resilience, and social well-being.