Technological and Environmental Behaviour of Traditional Ceramic Bodies Obtained by Recycling of Two Types of Residues

Abstract

In this research we evaluated the feasibility of incorporating MSW fly ashes and copper slag in the manufacture of traditional ceramic materials, in addition to assessing the immobilization of As and Pb in tiles, linear contraction, bending strength and water absorption (WA), were measured. A decrease in the WA was obtained by increasing the addition of both residues. It is feasible to substitute around 40% of standard clay for these by-products, with an improvement in the technical specifications of the specimens compared to the ceramic bodies manufactured without adding by-products. Furthermore, the immobilization of arsenic and lead was tested in the fired bodies. The immobilization of both elements improves as the firing temperature increases, as evidenced by the leaching tests. Regarding the Pb and As content, all the tested samples comply with established limits for non-hazardous landfill waste (Spanish laws).