Characterization of clayey sludge with potential use in the development of geopolymeric materials

The environmental issue related to the safe disposal of waste products from industrial activities represents a major societal challenge. Waste generation not only hurts the environment but also affects the competitiveness of the industry and the entire associated value chain. In the extraction process of stone materials, large quantities of clayey sludge are generated daily and must be disposed of properly, generating additional costs. In this study, two types of clayey sludge generated in quarries extracting stone materials were characterized. Both wastes were thoroughly analyzed using analytical and instrumental techniques, as well as methodologies that allowed the identification of their qualities for possible use in the development of polymeric materials. The results of the different analyses led to the conclusion that the residue with the greatest potential for use in the development of these materials is the so-called clayey sludge 1. The use of this residue for the proposed purpose could promote a productive chain between regional industrial sectors. This clay sludge represents an opportunity with an additional differentiating value for its valorization as a secondary raw material in the production of construction materials. In sustainability and circular economy scenarios, the aim is to maintain the value of the products in the economy for as long as possible and, by closing the materials cycle, reduce the generation of waste. Under this approach, waste can make the transition to a resource, losing its status as waste and acquiring the character of raw material for the creation of new technological products.