Cleaner Production Research Articles

Risk perception and reappraisal during the COVID-19 pandemic in southeast Alaska: Self-identified determinants of risk and protective health behaviors

Social and cultural context shapes how communities perceive health, well-being, and risk. Risk reappraisal can occur over time as a product of new information and improved understanding. We investigate risk perception and protective behaviors in Lingít Aaní (Southeast Alaska) during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Surveys were circulated at two time points: (1) April–June 2020, before COVID-19 reached epidemic levels in the region, and (2) November 2020–February 2021. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models were used to analyze how demographic characteristics of the respondent population were related to risk perception. OLS models were again used to predict how individuals engaged in protective behaviors while controlling for risk perceptions. Controlling for demographic characteristics, risk perception increased as age increased for perceived risk of getting sick and dying from COVID-19, males perceived lower risk in general for all tested variables, and Alaska Native respondents perceived higher risk than non-Alaska Native respondents. Controlling for risk perception, results for protective behaviors were mixed; however, the strongest association identified was that knowing someone with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis increased protective behaviors. Between the two time points, risk perceptions increased significantly for variables related to oneself, others, and community members becoming infected with COVID-19. Protective behaviors like traveling less than normal, buying more cleaning products, and engaging in more subsistence gathering significantly increased. Identifying patterns of risk perception and protective behaviors, and especially how they change over time, are critical to developing place-specific public health recommendations, action, and preparedness plans against future infectious threats.

The synergetic competition of cross-regional integrated energy systems with low-carbon technology heterogeneity under carbon emission trading mechanism to achieve carbon reduction target

The integration of renewable and fossil energy in a Region Integrated Energy System (RIES) is recognized as an effective measure for carbon emission reduction. The emergence of carbon emission trading (CET) markets worldwide has raised the need to combine RIES optimal planning with CET to achieve carbon reduction targets. This study focuses on the synergetic competition of a cross-RIES system with low-carbon technology heterogeneity under the CET mechanism. A cross-RIES model is constructed, incorporating fossil Carbon Capture System (fossil-CCS), renewable Combined Cooling Heating and Power (renewable-CCHP), and cleaner production paradigms. An improved version of the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) is used to propose a bi-level multi-objective optimal planning framework for the cross-RIES model, employing a grandfather permit allocation method. Comparative analysis is conducted between cross-RIES optimal planning with and without considering the CET mechanism, with a focus on environmental indexes such as carbon emission, carbon intensity, and marginal abatement cost. Sensitivity studies are also performed to explore the impact of key CET design parameters on the system's environmental performance. The simulation results demonstrate that the CET mechanism effectively reduces carbon emission, primary energy consumption, and carbon intensity by promoting synergetic competition among the low-carbon technology heterogeneity of RIESs. Furthermore, the environmental performance varies among the three types of RIES. In terms of CET parameter design, lowering the cap constraint, reducing the allowance allocation ratio of fossil-CCS RIES, and increasing the trading price contribute significantly to reducing carbon emission and carbon intensity, albeit at the expense of higher marginal abatement cost.

Assessment of the relationship between mineral extraction in the southern hemisphere and sustainable development

Sustainable mineral policies are needed to achieve environmental and social equity in the global South. This study explores the need to align mineral mining in the global South with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It studies the impact of mineral mining on sustainability in 29 global South economies from 2000 to 2021. It also conducts robustness analysis and heterogeneity tests to analyze the mediation effect and the impact of the release of SDGs on sustainability. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) Mineral mining has an inhibitory effect on sustainable development and has become a constraint for the achievement of sustainable development goals in the global South; (2) The more mineral-rich a country is, the more serious the adverse impact of mining activities is. The harm of mineral mining to sustainable development is most serious in Africa; (3) Mineral mining leads to an increase in ecological footprint and undermines environmental sustainability, while mineral rents may become a source of funds for clean production, offsetting the adverse effects of mineral mining; (4) The release of SDGs has prompted leaders of various countries to legislate and reform in the field of minerals, helping countries achieve sustainable development goals. The research results provide an effective reference for promoting environmental and social sustainable development in the global South.

Decarbonization Roadmaps and Community Transition Pathways: empowering Energy Citizenship in the EU

Abstract The European energy transition is currently emphasizing advancements in regulations and technologies, with a focus also on social justice. Citizens are perceived as key players in the energy systems, as their direct involvement can contribute to the wide spread of improved behaviours and clean energy production. This paper explores Community Transition Pathways (CTPs), an innovative instrument to support energy citizenship effectively. CTPs guide citizens through structured paths, addressing diverse communities. Grounded in energy citizenship theories, the concept integrates insights from literature and policy developments. CTPs have been created within the H2020 project GRETA and verified in six case studies across Italy, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, and Portugal. This paper aims to present the instrument as a project result, embedding its creation in the current debate about energy citizenship and transition pathways and presenting the results on three GRETA case studies. The research’s originality lies in its empirical approach, emphasizing citizens’ active roles in transition processes. Successful development and testing of CTPs demonstrate their value in fostering collaboration in clean energy production and facilitating participatory transition paths. However, ongoing refinement and replicability are essential for sustained success. By positioning citizens as active participants and reshaping public decision-making, CTPs advance a more inclusive and impactful approach to energy transition.

A new system using refuse-derived fuel as a feedstock for hydrogen and power co-generation: A techno-environmental assessment

Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) offers a promising opportunity for Canada to proceed with its transition towards a circular economy. This study focuses on the development of a pseudo-steady-state process simulation model to integrate RDF processing and utilization technologies with the existing plants. Canada’s RDF is chosen as a potential feedstock and is coupled with the two cycles, namely Sulfure Iodine (S-I) thermochemical cycle for hydrogen production and dual pressure loop power (DPLP) cycle for electricity generation. A comprehensive process modeling and simulation is undertaken in the Aspen Plus software package. An integrated environmental and thermodynamic assessment of the plant, including energy and exergy analyses, is conducted. Several sensitivity analyses are conducted to predict the ideal operational parameters for optimized efficiency. It is found that a feed of 1300 kg/h RDF generates 96.76 kg of clean hydrogen and 382.24 kW of clean power. The results show RDF-to-power and RDF-to-H2 energy efficiency of 22.19 % and 25.27 % respectively. Regarding the environmental performance, the results show that the proposed plant avoids 423.82 tons of CO2 emissions per year for clean hydrogen production and 1685.45 tons of CO2 emissions per year for clean power production. The overall performance of the developed system in terms of efficiencies is 35.91 % for energy and 42.46 % for exergy.

Development of a novel renewable energy-based integrated system coupling biomass and H2S sources for clean hydrogen production

The present work aims to develop a novel integrated energy system to produce clean hydrogen, power, and biochar. The Palmaria palmata, a type of seaweed, and hydrogen sulfide from the industrial gaseous waste streams are taken as potential feedstock. A combined thermochemical approach is employed for the processing of both feedstocks. For clean hydrogen production, the zinc sulfide thermochemical cycle is employed. Both stoichiometric and non-stoichiometric equilibrium-based models of the proposed plant design are developed in the Aspen Plus software, and a comprehensive thermodynamic analysis of the system is also performed by evaluating energy and exergy efficiencies. The study further explores the modeling, simulation, and parametric analyses of various subsections to enhance the hydrogen and biochar production rate. The parametric analyses show that the first step of the thermochemical cycle (sulfurization reaction) follows stoichiometric pathway and the ZnO to H2S ratio of 1 represents the optimal point for reactant conversion. On the other hand, the second step of the thermochemical cycle (regeneration reaction) does not follow a stoichiometric pathway and ZnS conversion of 12.87% is achieved at a high temperature of 1400oC. It is found that a hydrogen production rate of 0.71 mol/s is achieved with the introduction of 0.27 mol/s of H2S. The energy and exergy efficiencies of the zinc sulfide thermochemical cycle are found to be 65.23% and 35.58% respectively. A biochar production rate of 0.024 kg/s is obtained with the Palmaria palmata fed rate of 0.097 kg/s. The Palmaria to biochar energy and exergy efficiencies are found to be 55.43% and 45.91% respectively. The overall energy and exergy efficiencies of the proposed plant are determined to be 72.88% and 50.03% respectively.

An eco-efficient European metal industry transition towards Circular Economy

The European metal industry can minimize carbon and energy intensity through Circular Economy (CE) solutions in order to achieve the Agendas’ 2030; 2050 targets. This paper evaluates the eco-efficiency in 21 European countries using hybrid window data envelopment analysis (WDEA) across two scenarios. The study compares short- and a meso-term policies by choosing different window widths. Inputs include gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), labor force, and energy intensity value added, with value added as desirable output and carbon intensity value added as undesirable output. Results show that the meso-term policy yields an average eco-efficiency of 47%, while the short-term policy achieves 55%, suggesting that short-term strategies are more effective for the metal industry in reaching the Net-Zero goals. Geographically, Western and Northern Europe exhibit better eco-efficiency than Eastern and Southern Europe. In essence, the European metal industry can reach a Net-Zero status through deep CE transformations in energy and carbon intensity via cleaner production.

Valorization of agricultural by-product for cleaner and sustainable production of microbial pigments and cellulolytic enzymes in a zero-waste approach

This work presents a zero-waste concept for the valorization of banana peel into Monascus value-added metabolites, such as pigments and cellulolytic enzymes, and for evaluation of the feasibility of treated peel as a promising source for animal feedstuff. M. purpureus YRU01 exhibited satisfactory pigment and cellulolytic enzyme production in solid-state fermentation. Particularly, repeated solid-state fermentation of non-sterile peel with 90% substrate replacement was effective in offering high recovery of pigments, xylanase, and cellulase (7.19-, 31.19-, and 92.62-fold higher than those of solid-state fermentation, respectively). The LC/MS profile of fermented peel provided important evidence of fungal metabolites (>100 metabolites) for understanding and evaluating the fermentation. Moreover, citrinin-related mycotoxin fragments were not found. The treated peel had high carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber contents, but low protein content, indicating its potential to be used as a roughage in animal feed.

Unveiling the bi-functional electrocatalytic properties of rhenium di-sulfide nanostructures towards the development of high-rate alkaline water electrolyzer

Alkaline water electrolyzer (AWE) offers a unique solution for generating hydrogen (H2) gas via an electrochemical water-splitting process. The major drawback of the AWE is its limitations in driving high-current densities, an important criterion for the industry standard. In this work, we have demonstrated the bi-functional electrocatalytic properties of ReS2 nanosheets towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) with low overpotential (139.2 and 258.89 mV for HER and OER) and Tafel slopes, respectively. The micro/nano electrocatalytic activity of the ReS2 electrocatalyst was examined using a scanning electrochemical microscope (SECM) and Kelvin probe force microscope (KPFM). A lab-scale AWE fabricated using prototype ReS2 electrocatalyst demonstrated that they could drive the benchmark current density (10 mA cm−2) with a low cell voltage of 1.645 V. Further, we also demonstrated a self-powered system comprising an on-shore wind-energy driven ReS2 AWE for sustainable H2 production. Further, the experimental results based on industrially recommended conditions for AWE illustrated that they need only 1.85 V to drive a current density of 500 mA cm−2; thus, ensuring their candidature towards high-rate AWE for clean hydrogen production.

Exploration and multi performance evaluation of process intensification for separation of ethyl tert-butyl ether/ethanol from wastewater

Ethyl tert-butyl ether is a green gasoline additive that enhances fuel efficiency and can play an essential role in improving fuel performance. This study explored the separation of wastewater containing ethyl tert-butyl ether and ethanol by changing the pressure and adding reactions based on extractive distillation, using the synergistic effect of the entrainer, pressure, and chemical reaction. By utilizing coupling technology and process intensification concepts, developed a comprehensive series of intensified processes that have clarified the interaction mechanisms between the extractive distillation process (EDP), pressure swing extractive distillation process (PSEDP), and reactive extractive distillation process (REDP). Studying the separation and purification mechanisms of products and intermediates during the reaction process provides theoretical and practical support for optimizing chemical processes. Comparative analysis showed that the reactive extraction pressure swing distillation process (REPSDP) had preeminent economic and environmental benefits. The total annual cost of PSEDP, REDP, and REPSDP was reduced by 5.88 %, 1.68 %, and 10.08 %, respectively, compared with EDP. The gas emissions of PSEDP, REDP, REPSDP, and REPSDP with heat integration process (HI-REPSDP) are all lower than those of EDP. HI-REPSDP saves 47.59 % of gas emissions compared to EDP, highlighting its environmental benefits. HI-REPSDP has the best energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption by 47.58 % compared to EDP, significantly improving the energy utilization rate. It was found that the introduction of heat integration technology had a significant improvement effect. This research has crucial theoretical and practical value and provides guidance and reference for achieving a clean and efficient production process.

Sodium dodecyl sulfate rearranges the conformation of transferrin and attenuates its iron-binding capacity

Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), an anionic surfactant used in many cleaning and hygiene products, is known for its dermal and respiratory toxicity. However, how this surfactant influences the iron dynamics within the body and the mechanism is unknown. We explored the interaction between SDS and human transferrin (HTF), focusing on the effects on iron-binding capacity and structural changes. Results revealed that SDS exposure led to a significant release of iron from HTF in a dose-dependent manner, changing its structure and reducing the iron-binding ability. Spectroscopic analyses showed that the protein secondary structure and skeleton, as well as the micro-environment of aromatic amino acids of HTF, were destroyed after SDS binding. Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) results (ΔG, ΔS, and ΔH were −40.1 kcal·mol−1, 0.16 kcal·mol−1·K-1, and 10.1 kcal·mol−1, respectively) indicated a spontaneous and hydrophobic interaction with one strong binding site. Molecular docking identified the preferred binding sites, emphasizing hydrophobic forces (with the hydrophobic tail) and hydrogen bonds (with the hydrophilic head) as the primary driving forces, which aligns with the ITC results. Overall, this comprehensive analysis sheds light on the intricate interplay between SDS and HTF, providing insights into potential health risks associated with SDS exposure.

Efficient photoreforming of plastic waste using a high-entropy oxide catalyst

Simultaneous catalytic hydrogen (H2) production and plastic waste degradation under light, known as photoreforming, is a novel approach to green fuel production and efficient waste management. Here, we use a high-entropy oxide (HEO), a new family of catalysts with five or more principal cations in their structure, for plastic degradation and H2 production. The HEO shows higher activity than that of P25 TiO2, a benchmark photocatalyst, for the degradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics in water. Several valuable products are produced by photoreforming of PET bottles and microplastics including H2, terephthalate, ethylene glycol and formic acid. The high activity is attributed to the diverse existence of several cations in the HEO lattice, lattice defects, and appropriate charge carrier lifetime. These findings suggest that HEOs possess high potential as new catalysts for concurrent plastic waste conversion and clean H2 production.

Designing and structuring MnO2 coating compositions for efficient and clean zinc electrowinning production

Lead-silver (Pb-Ag) anodes in the zinc electrolysis have resulted in significant environmental pollution and waste of valuable resources due to the influence of the lead corrosion reaction (LCR). Herein, the composition and interfacial structure of manganese dioxide (MnO2) coatings were designed and regulated by controlling the electrodeposition nucleation process using a Pb-Ag anode as the substrate. MnO2 coatings with a three-dimensional spherical bicrystalline-phase (β/γ) hydrophilic structure were synthesized. The introduction of γ-MnO2 not only increased the hydrophilicity of the coating, but also increased the content of the active substances Mn3+ and Oabs, thus improving the intrinsic OER activity of the MnO2 anode. Furthermore, density functional calculations have demonstrated that γ-MnO2 reduces the energy barrier of the determining step and increases the adsorption capacity of OH*, which is conducive to promoting the OER process. It was also demonstrated that the MnO2-coated anode could suppress the generation of Pb4+, thus inhibit the LCR process. Long-term electrolysis experiments have shown that the β/γ-MnO2 composite phase-coated anode can not only improve the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) rate and reduce energy consumption, but also effectively mitigate the generation of lead pollution and further reduce the impurity content of zinc products. This approach can simultaneously achieve economic benefits and environmental protection.

Hierarchical Ti3C2Tx MXene@Honeycomb nanocomposite with high energy efficiency for solar water desalination

The utilization of solar-driven interfacial evaporation holds immense promise in enhancing energy efficiency and establishing sustainable methods for seawater desalination and water purification. While designing the materials to achieve high evaporation efficiency, the tuning of materials with porosity and surface chemistry is very crucial. Novel sustainable materials are of great importance for solar water desalination applications since clean water production is utmost important in the current era. There exists a lack of exploration in modifying the surface wettability states of solar evaporators to expedite the vapor generation rates. In this study, we showcase a hydrophilic Ti3C2Tx MXene-coated carbonized honeycomb (CHC) (Ti3C2Tx MXene@CHC) nanocomposite-based hexagonal-shaped evaporator surface. This is the first-time report on the effective utilization of hierarchical CHC for the preparation of solar absorber comprising of Ti3C2Tx MXene@CHC nanocomposite, particularly for the solar water desalination. The Ti3C2Tx MXene@CHC nanocomposite evaporator achieves an impressive water evaporation rate of 1.6 kg m−2 h−1 with 90% efficiency under 1 sun illumination. The augmented thickness of the water layer in the hydrophilic surface of the Ti3C2Tx MXene@CHC nanocomposite helps in facilitating the rapid escape of water molecules. The relatively elongated contact lines in the hydrophobic region simultaneously ensure substantial water evaporation, significantly enhancing the water desalination process. The Ti3C2Tx MXene@CHC nanocomposite exceeds stringent quality benchmarks, signaling its potential for solar water desalination.

Source and Bioavailability of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) in Dust: Implications for Nationwide Exposure in China

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), widely used in various disinfectants products during the COVID-19 Pandemic, raised the concerns on their exposure and health effect. To date, the sources of QACs in indoor environments have been largely ignored. Additionally, there is no information on the nationwide human exposure assessment of QACs in China after the COVID-19. Herein, analysis of QACs in household products, including personal care (n=27), cleaning (n=6) and disinfection products (n=11) from different manufacturing companies further confirmed there are extensive application of QACs in household products, raising their potential exposure to humans. QACs were frequently detected in indoor dust samples (n=370) from 111 cities of 31 provinces/municipalities across China, with median concentration of 6778ng/g. Benzalkyldimethylammonium compounds (BACs) and alkyltrimethylammonium compounds (ATMACs) were identified as the dominant QACs in dust samples, with the proportions of 44% and 46%, respectively. The in vivo bioavailability experiment (C57BL/6 male mice) showed that the relative bioavailability (RBA) of QACs through dust ingestion ranged from 5.08% to 66.3% and 60.3% to 118% in the low and high-dose group, respectively. Compared to the pre-adjustment scenario of RBA values, the exposure risk of QACs was overestimated by 2.23 – 5.14 times.

Performance assessment of graphene oxide based nano-cutting fluids during sustainable hard turning through synthesis, characterization and machinability investigation

Achieving sustainability in manufacturing necessitates the implementation of eco-friendly solutions by adopting environmentally friendly coolants with cost-effective, energy-efficient and cleaner production processes without posing any risk to the operator's health. In this current work, mineral oil-based graphene oxide (GO) nano-cutting fluids of different concentration (0.05, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 % wt.) are synthesized and their characteristics such as rheological, thermo-physical and tribological properties along with their stability and toxicology impact are thoroughly investigated. Further, the influence of nano-cutting fluid concentration on machinability and sustainability aspects during hard turning such as flank wear, surface integrity, power consumption, cutting temperature, carbon and noise emissions are investigated. According to the result an enhancement of 28.83 % and 29.54 % in viscosity and thermal conductivity have been recorded when concentration of nanofluid increases from 0.05 % to 0.5 %. GO nano-cutting fluids shows anti wear and friction reduction properties by providing excellent lubricious properties, as a result coefficient of friction has been reduced up to 28.36 % at 0.5 % wt. GO compared to plane mineral oil. A notable reduction in flank wear, cutting temperature, surface roughness, cutting temperature, power consumption, carbon emission and noise emission were noticed to be 25.96 %, 27.82 %, 23.86 %, 25.22 %, 11.66 % and 2.72 % respectively when the concentration of GO nanoparticles increases from 0.05 % to 0.5 % wt. Smoother surface with minimal defect has been noticed from the SEM and AFM image of machined workpiece at highest concentration (0.5 % wt.) of GO due to the synergetic effect of GO nano-cutting fluid and dual nozzle MQL system.

Enhancing the sustainability of the sawn rubberwood industry through resource-efficient and cleaner production approaches

The sawn rubberwood industry plays a pivotal role in Thailand’s economy, yet it poses significant environmental challenges due to its resource-intensive production processes. This study seeks to address these challenges by applying Resource Efficient and Cleaner Production methodologies, aimed at enhancing sustainability in the sector. A comprehensive methodological framework was employed to assess and optimize resource utilization, mitigate environmental risks, and improve eco-efficiency throughout the production cycle. The study's key findings demonstrate a substantial 28.31% reduction in raw material intensity, a decrease of 48 kgCO2 eq. in greenhouse gas emissions, and a remarkable 76.23% increase in eco-efficiency. These results underscore the efficacy of cleaner production technologies in enhancing resource consumption, minimizing environmental impact, and improving overall production efficiency. Additionally, the integration of circular economy principles, such as repurposing sawdust for fuel in boilers, further reduced fuel consumption and contributed to a more sustainable production model. The implications of this research suggest that adopting RECP approaches not only facilitates regulatory compliance but also positions the sawn rubberwood industry as a model for achieving broader sustainability goals. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need for the future expansion of RECP strategies to other industrial sectors. It recommends further optimization of clean technologies through the integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) and data science, enabling real-time monitoring and predictive analytics. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of advancing air pollution control technologies to further enhance environmental performance and operational efficiency.

Characterization and life cycle assessment of alkali treated abaca fibers: the effect of reusing sodium hydroxide

The increasing demand for natural fibers, driven by their advantageous attributes such as low density, sustainability, and high specific strength, has promoted the adoption of sustainable alternatives in composites. Although alkali treatments are known to improve fiber properties, they entail challenges regarding NaOH consumption and environmental impact, making it necessary to explore cleaner production strategies. This study evaluated the effects of implementing a circular economy approach through the recirculation of an NaOH solution on the treatment of abaca fibers. The fiber properties were assessed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and tensile strength testing, along with an evaluation of the carbon footprint through a life cycle assessment. New life cycle inventories were developed to reflect the NaOH recirculation process. Comparative analyses were conducted using polypropylene fibers. The findings indicate that the recirculation of the NaOH solution remains effective for up to eight cycles, producing consistent TGA, SEM, and tensile strength results while achieving a 25 % reduction in the carbon footprint compared to conventional treatment. Additionally, this study highlights the environmental advantages of abaca over synthetic fibers, with increased tensile strength (8–46 %) and carbon footprint reduction (55–86 %) compared to polypropylene fibers. These results highlight the potential of abaca fibers to contribute to the circular economy, enhance resource efficiency, and mitigate climate change.

Expression of concern: “Sustainable industries: Production planning and control as an ally to implement strategy” [Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 281, 25 January 2021, 124781]

Expression of concern: “Sustainable industries: Production planning and control as an ally to implement strategy” [Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 281, 25 January 2021, 124781]

Concurrent removal of Fe(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) cations from acid mine drainage by an industrial solid waste - steel slag: Behaviors and mechanisms

Acid mine drainage (AMD) contamination poses a severe environmental threat and is a significant risk to human health. There is an urgent need to develop environmentally sustainable and technically viable solutions for water contamination caused by heavy metals. In this study, steel slag (SS) was used as a secondary resource to concurrently remove Fe(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) from AMD. Because of the loose and porous structure, abundant functional groups, fast sedimentation velocity, and excellent solid-liquid separation, SS showed exceptional removal performance for heavy metal ions. The adsorption kinetic data of Fe(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) showed good regression with the pseudo-second-order model. Besides, the adsorption of Fe(II) by SS conformed to the Freundlich model, whereas the adsorption of Cu(II) and Zn(II) followed the Langmuir model, with the maximum adsorption amounts of Cu(II) and Zn(II) being 170.69 and 155.98 mg/g. Furthermore, competitive adsorption was observed among Fe (II), Cu (II), and Zn (II) in a multi-component system, with the adsorption priority being Fe (II) > Cu (II) > Zn (II). The removal mechanism of Fe(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) in AMD by SS mainly includes electrostatic attraction, chemical precipitation, and surface complexation. Interestingly, the leached concentrations of Fe(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) from the spent slag after calcination were all within the detection limit of the Chinese emission standard, demonstrating excellent environmental stability. Theoretically, this renders it a viable candidate for use as an additive in construction materials. Meaningfully, the work offers a practical approach for energy-efficient and eco-friendly heavy metal ions adsorption, and the secondary utilization of SS also contributes to the sustainable development of the steel industry. It is beneficial to implement the development concepts of clean production and efficient utilization of industrial solid waste.