Physical and chemical characterization of residual sludge from El Cacao quarry: proposal for industrial use

Abstract

Samples taken at the discharge of the conductive line to the sedimentation lagoon were characterized in terms of chemical composition, grading, reactivity, density, volumetric weight and humidity in order to propose possible destinations for sludge from "El Cacao" aggregate processing plant. It was determined that oxide calcium is the main constituent of these sludges; which make them perspective to be used as a raw material in the manufacture of lime with a particle diameter of 0.037 mm and a reactivity higher than 95%, as a neutralizer in the nickel industry and as a raw material for several applications in the construction industry, which would also contribute to mitigate the negative impact dumping this waste causes on the environment.

Keywords

• lodos residuales
• áridos
• cantera El Cacao
• protección ambiental.