Work

Use of Sands from Wastewater Treatment Plants as a Substitute for Natural Aggregate in the Context of a Circular Economy

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In light of the global raw material crisis and the ongoing degradation of the natural environment, this study provides a significant contribution to the advancement of the circular economy in the construction sector. The authors conducted a comprehensive analysis of the feasibility of using waste sands originating from wastewater treatment plants as substitutes for natural fine aggregates in concrete mixtures. The investigation included the evaluation of the physicochemical, environmental, and mechanical properties of the analyzed waste sands. The results demonstrate a high application potential for sewer cleaning sand (SC), which, in its current form, can be used in non-structural applications. The key advantages of the sand that was examined include a high sand-equivalent value (98.2%), low contents of impurities (LOI < 1.5%), and a favorable chemical composition. Leaching tests for harmful substances, including heavy metals, for both the sand and the mortar samples, did not indicate any significant environmental risk. One principal conclusion of the study is the identification of the possibility of closing the waste life cycle at the wastewater treatment plant stage, which could significantly contribute to the reduction of landfilled waste volumes and operational costs.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17125471

Authors: Monika Czop, Elwira Zajusz-Zubek, Beata Łaźniewska-Piekarczyk

Institution: Silesian University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Materials Engineering and Processing

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896