Work

Phosphogypsum leachate cleaning waste as partial cement replacement in mortars

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • LDW-mortars increased the compressive strength at 2.5–10% replacement compared to the reference. • LDW-mortars were able to immobilise potential contaminants. • The gamma index ( I ) was < 1 for LDW-mortars. This study presents the first valorisation of a waste generated from the cleaning process of phosphogypsum leachate. Leachate decontamination waste (LDW), which contains non-negligible concentrations of heavy metals, radionuclides and fluorine, was used as a partial cement replacement in mortars at varying proportions. New cements and mortars were produced from mixtures of a commercial Portland cement (CEM I 52.5) with different concentrations of this waste (2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 25 and 35 wt.%). The physical-chemical properties, mechanical behaviour, and environmental impact of these LDW-cement mortars were evaluated. The results revealed that incorporating LDW at levels of up to 10% not only maintained but even enhanced the mechanical properties compared to the reference mortar. Furthermore, the cement matrix effectively immobilized potential contaminants in all cases, contributing to environmental safety.

Source: Results in Engineering

DOI: 10.1016/j.rineng.2025.107913

Authors: F.J. Soto-Cruz, J. Rosales, J.P. Bolívar, I. Ramos-Lerate, Francisco Agrela, M.J. Gázquez

Institutions: Universidad de Cádiz, University of Córdoba, Universidad de Huelva

Language: English

Topic: Recycling and utilization of industrial and municipal waste in materials production

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,940