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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.
Modern Methods of Asbestos Waste Management as Innovative Solutions for Recycling and Sustainable Cement Production
Managing asbestos waste presents a significant challenge due to the widespread industrial use of this material, and the serious health and environmental risks it poses. Despite its unique properties, such as resistance to high temperatures and substantial mechanical strength, asbestos is a material with well-documented toxicity and carcinogenicity. Ensuring the safe removal and disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) is crucial for protecting public health, the environment, and for reducing CO2 emissions resulting from inefficient waste disposal methods. Traditional landfill disposal methods have proven inadequate, while modern approaches—including thermal, chemical, biotechnological, and mechanochemical methods—offer potential benefits but also come with limitations. In particular, thermal techniques that allow for asbestos degradation can significantly reduce environmental impact, while also providing the opportunity to repurpose disposal products into materials useful for cement production. Cement, a key component of concrete, can serve as a sustainable alternative, minimizing CO2 emissions and reducing the need for primary raw materials. This work provides insights into research on asbestos waste management, offering a deeper understanding of key initiatives related to asbestos removal. It presents a comprehensive review of best practices, innovative technologies, and safe asbestos management strategies, with particular emphasis on their impact on sustainable development and CO2 emission reduction. Additionally, it discusses public health hazards related to exposure to asbestos fibers, and worker protection during the asbestos disposal process. As highlighted in the review, one promising method is the currently available thermal degradation of asbestos. This method offers real opportunities for repurposing asbestos disposal products for cement production; thereby reducing CO2 emissions, minimizing waste, and supporting sustainable construction.