Determination of the trace elements, radionuclides and REEs in the Brazilian stone waste and evaluation of sustainable use

Stone waste generated in the processing of marble and granite may present potential for recycling. The objective this study was to determine the concentrations of natural radionuclides, trace elements, Sm and Dy in stone waste. To this end, neutron activation analysis (NAA) was performed. Concentrations of Ca, Mg, S, P and K indicate that this waste can be a promising alternative as an agricultural soil conditioner. Concentrations of Dy and Sm above the values found in the earth's crust allow a glimpse of the use of stone waste for recycling these. Feasibility of use in agriculture and REE recycling exists.

Automated summary

The study aimed to determine the concentrations of natural radionuclides, trace elements, Dy and Sm in stone waste through neutron activation analysis (NAA). The concentrations of Ca, Mg, S, P, and K in the waste indicate its potential as an agricultural soil conditioner. The presence of higher concentrations of Dy and Sm than in the earth's crust suggests the possibility of recycling these elements from the stone waste, providing feasibility for agricultural use and rare earth element recycling.