Synthesis and characterisation of Portland cement clinker by exploiting waste oyster shells and alumina sludge

Abstract

Significant quantities of oceanic waste oyster shells and drinking water treatment plant sludge (alumina sludge) raise serious issues on eco-toxicology and environmental protection. In order to manipulate these issues, the present research work investigates the valorisation capability of the mentioned waste materials as raw meal substitutes for Portland clinker production. The clinkers and their respective cements thus obtained have been structurally characterised by various structural analysis techniques including, X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Structural analysis results reveal that the replacement of clinker raw materials by waste oyster shells and alumina sludge positively influences the morphology of the formed clinker/cement. In addition, the development of compressive strength of this waste-based cement has been found similar to that of standard Portland cement (type 52.5N) which justifies its commercialisation potential. A detailed account of the interpretations of invaluable physico-chemical parameters regarding the clinker/cement along with the prospective applications of the present study is also discussed.

Keywords:

• Alumina sludge
• waste oyster shells
• waste valorisation
• Portland cement

Compliance with ethical standards

It is declared that this article is in entire compliance with the ethical standards.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.