Sustainable synthesis of silicon carbide from sludge waste generated in organosilane industry

This study uses organosilane waste, a byproduct of the organosilane industry, to produce SiC particles through an accessible and effective method. Thermodynamic analysis was adopted to provide evidence of this route followed by exploring the effects of carbon content, time and temperature on SiC purity, crystallinity of, and the Si recovery ratio. The maximum purity of SiC of 88.4% and Si recovery of 95% was achieved at a temperature of 1750 degrees C, time of 45 min, and sludge waste: petroleum coke ratio of 2.8:1. The mechanism of the associated reaction is explained in three parts: phase separation of SiOC, nucleation in Si melt and carbothermal reduction of SiO2. This sustainable approach repurposes sludge waste, which contributes to environmental preservation and resource efficiency.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates a sustainable method to produce SiC particles using organosilane waste, resulting in a maximum SiC purity of 88.4% and Si recovery of 95%. The effects of carbon content, time, and temperature on the purity and recovery of Si are examined through thermodynamic analysis and experimental exploration. This research provides a viable approach for the repurposing of sludge waste.