Applications of slate waste material in the UK

Abstract

The potential of using slate waste generated from roofing slate production in the UK in various applications is reviewed and the environmental impact of the stockpile of slate waste is also assessed. The findings suggest that there is potential for using slate waste in many situations, including engineering applications. In order to reduce the environmental impact arising from the quarrying of conventional construction materials, the abundance of slate waste in Wales in particular and the UK in general could be exploited. With associated economic advantages despite reported transportation difficulties, utilisation of this waste stream for most practical and low- to medium-strength engineering applications is feasible and would maximise the use of surplus regional and national industrial wastes and minimise the environmental impact of their disposal.