ADSORPTION PROPERTIES OF CARBONATE SLUDGE FROM THERMAL POWER PLANTS DURING WASTEWATER TREATMENT FROM PETROLEUM PRODUCTS

The article examines the potential for the secondary use of industrial waste from the energy sector, specifically chemical water treatment (CWT) sludge generated at thermal power plants (TPPs), as an efficient and economically viable adsorbent for the treatment of wastewater contaminated with oil and petroleum products. A detailed analysis of the physicochemical characteristics of the sludge was conducted, including its elemental composition, specific surface area, porosity, and particle size, which determine its high sorption activity. It was found that the presence of magnesium and calcium promotes effective hydrocarbon capture due to ionic interactions and the alkaline nature of the surface, while silicon dioxide ensures structural stability and mechanical strength. The sludge was compared with widely used commercial adsorbents based on key parameters such as chemical composition, mechanical strength, environmental safety, regeneration capability, and effectiveness against various pollutants. The results indicate that carbonate sludge is a promising, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly material for use in the treatment of oil-contaminated wastewater, as well as within the framework of sustainable industrial waste management strategies. The necessity for further research is emphasized to explore the regeneration potential of the adsorbent and its performance in treating different types of contaminants.