APPLICATION OF COMPOSITE CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION DEBRIS IN HEAVY METALS REMOVAL FROM INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER

The utilization of construction and demolition debris in industrial wastewater treatment by sorption of Co2+ and Ni2+ ions was investigated. Selected waste composites are cost-effective and locally available, still their sorption characteristics and application are not sufficiently investigated. The samples of concrete, facade, ceramic materials, and asphalt were characterized in terms of mineral and surface composition, radioactivity, and stability at different pH values, as well as pH values of suspension and filtrate and electrical conductivity of the filtrate. The sorption capacities were determined in batch experimental conditions in one- and multi-component solutions. Characterization showed different crystal structures and mineralogical compositions of components. The results of gamma spectrometry confirmed the radiological safety of samples. Based on stability testing results, waste materials are suitable for further utilization and do not pose any risk to the environment. The overall sorption results suggested that cementbased materials, in addition to high affinity for the tested ions, represent a sorbent that binds contaminants firmly enough, reduces their mobility and bioavailability, and are suitable for removing Co2+ and Ni2+ ions from wastewaters.

Automated summary

The study investigated the utilization of construction and demolition debris in industrial wastewater treatment through the sorption of Co2+ and Ni2+ ions. Although cost-effective and locally available, the sorption characteristics and application of selected waste composites have not been thoroughly investigated. The waste materials were characterized for mineral and surface composition, radioactivity, stability at different pH values, as well as pH and electrical conductivity of the suspension and filtrate. The sorption capacities of the waste materials were determined in batch experimental conditions. The results showed that cement-based materials have a high affinity for Co2+ and Ni2+ ions, effectively reducing their mobility and bioavailability in wastewaters.