Influence of Calcination and Comminution of Drinking Water Treatment Sludge on the Properties of Ceramics

Abstract

This study evaluated the grain size and high organic content from drinking water treatment sludge (DWTS) in the properties of ceramics. Samples were studied using raw and oven dried DWTS at 110 °C in two granulometries (0.180 mm and 0.075 mm), with and without calcination (550 °C), as partial replacement of two soils commonly used in ceramic production. Specimens were prepared with 5, 10, and 20% DWTS and calcined at 950 °C to determine their chemical, physical, mineralogical and mechanical properties. The DWTS reduced the density and increased the absorption and shrinkage of the specimens after calcination. An increase in strength with up to 10% sludge, driven by the presence of fluxing agents, was verified. The processing method had little influence on the properties of ceramic with above 10% of sludge. In conclusion, the use of raw DWTS obtained better results with low energy usage for its reuse.

Utilisation of Waste Sludge from Drinking Water Treatment as a Filler Material in Hot Mix Asphalt

“…Zandy et al [29] and Sofy et al [30] indicated in their two different studies that DWTS and activated drinking water treatment sludge seemed to be suitable for producing blended cement at 5-10% increased levels and for use in concrete. The study of Rodrigues et al [31] confirms that DWTS reduces energy expenditure due to drying and grinding in ceramic production.…”