Work

Utilization of Waste Materials Using the Müller–Kühne Process—A Life Cycle Inventory Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The declining availability of sulfuric acid in Europe potentially creates a critical raw material gap. A possible solution to overcome this gap is the Müller–Kühne process (MKP), which converts gypsum waste into sulfuric acid and cement clinker, addressing both a disposal problem and, at the same time, enabling the utilization of complex waste materials for closed material cycles. Here we present a Life Cycle Inventory study of the MKP based on literature data and stoichiometric calculations. The MKP achieves a material yield of 85 %, outperforming conventional cement production, whereas its specific energy demand is higher at 7.45 GJ t −1 of clinker. The inventory serves as a basis for a subsequent life cycle assessment.

Source: Chemie Ingenieur Technik

DOI: 10.1002/cite.70047

Authors: Leon Kassner, Manfred Renner, Peter Fröhlich, Martin Bertau, Philip Biessey

Institutions: Ruhr University Bochum, TU Bergakademie Freiberg

Language: English

Topic: Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Subfield: Environmental Engineering

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Climate action, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,030