Utilization of Brine Sludge and Fly Ash Waste as Complementary Resources, for Making Non-toxic, Geopolymeric (Cement-Free) Materials

Abstract

For the first time, an interdisciplinary approach has been conceived to address environmental hazards of brine sludge and fly ash waste, from chloral alkali industry by developing non-toxic, geopolymeric (cement-free) materials for sustainable development. The process enables the utilization of two industrial wastes, namely fly ash and brine sludge. The utilization of brine sludge in making geopolymeric (cement-free) paver blocks and bricks and its effect on the engineering properties of these products are discussed. The XRD, IR and SEM studies have also been presented. The compressive strength of geopolymeric mortar made using brine sludge could be achieved up to 20 MPa. These results clearly exhibit that brine sludge can be utilized for making geopolymeric (cement-free) paver blocks and bricks. The geopolymerization of brine sludge converts it into non-toxic material which is confirmed by leachability studies. The utilization of brine sludge in making geopolymeric (cement-free) paver blocks and bricks as construction materials could serve as an attractive approach to solve its disposal issue, thereby saving non-renewable natural resources otherwise required for making paver blocks and bricks.