Experimental determination of optimal parameters of the process of carbonization of slag from incineration of municipal waste

This article provides an in-depth investigation into the mineral carbonation process of slags resulting from the thermal processing of municipal solid waste (MSW). This process is considered a promising and environmentally sustainable method for capturing and long-term storage of carbon dioxide (CO₂), a major greenhouse gas. The article presents a detailed theoretical justification of the process, including an analysis of the thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of carbonation reactions, as well as a consideration of the mechanisms of CO₂ interaction with various mineral components of slags. Particular attention is paid to the influence of the mineral composition of the slags on the efficiency and rate of carbonation. The experimental research methods used to analyze the carbonation process are described in detail, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). These methods allow us to study the phase composition of slags, the structure of the formed carbonate minerals, and their morphology. The results of calculations of the optimal parameters for slag carbonation are presented, taking into account the influence of key factors such as temperature, CO₂ pressure, CO₂ concentration, reaction time, and slag particle size. Particular attention is paid to studying the influence of temperature and pressure on the CO₂ binding rate and the formation of stable carbonate minerals, such as calcite, magnesite, and siderite. Serpentine, traditionally used for mineral carbonation due to its favorable chemical properties and high magnesium content, is considered as a reference material for comparison.