Production Of Construction Materials Research Articles

THE EFFECT OF USING FLY ASH AS A CEMENT SUBSTITUTE ON THE QUALITY OF NICKEL SLAG-BASED PAVING BLOCKS

The Rum Steam Power Plant (PLTU) uses coal as an energy source. The waste produced from this process is in the form of solid waste with an amount of ±5% of the total waste. This solid waste is in the form of bottom ash and fly ash with a content of 80-90% in the form of bottom ash and the remaining 10-20% in the form of fly ash. Paving blocks are an important element in urban infrastructure, used for roads, sidewalks and other public areas. In recent years, attention to sustainability and the use of environmentally friendly materials has increased. This research will focus on analyzing the interaction of these two materials in paving block mixtures, with the aim of producing construction materials that are more efficient and environmentally friendly. The research results show that the substitution of cement with fly ash in paving blocks made from nickel slag has a significant effect on the mechanical and physical characteristics. The use of fly ash up to 20% shows relatively good results with a reduction in compressive strength and density that is not too significant, while the proportion of 30% shows a more drastic reduction. Therefore, it is recommended to use a maximum proportion of 20% fly ash as a cement substitute to achieve a balance between strength and sustainability.

Using Industrial Mining Solid Waste through Conversion to Phase-Change Materials for Thermal Energy Storage.

The mining industry produces a large amount of industrial solid waste every year.Among them, fly ash(FA), slag and tailings are the three main solid wastes, which can cause soil pollution, air pollution, water pollution and serious threat to human health if not handled properly. At present, the treatment methods of industrial solid waste mainly include direct landfill, recovery of high-value components, production of construction materials, etc. These methods not only waste land resources, but also have a limited scope of application. Mining and metallurgical industrial solid wastes are generally characterized by high porosity, certain mechanical strength, and high yield, which can be used as a porous matrix to support phase change materials (PCMs)after modification treatment, thus solving the problem of easy leakage of PCMs. At present, there is no overview of mining industry solid waste in PCM applications. This paper provides a detailed review of the research progress of FA, slag and tailings in the field of phase change thermal storage materials in recent years, which provides useful ideas for further research on the comprehensive utilization of solid wastes in the mining and metallurgical industry and the reduction of their pollution of the environment.

EVALUATION AND ANALYSIS OF MOUNTED CRUSHING BUCKETS

Reducing energy consumption has become one of the main directions of research in the field of machines for the production of building materials. Solving the problem related to the determination of energy costs is a difficult task, since these costs depend on many factors that change during the operation of the machine and are difficult to accurately describe. The development of energy-efficient crushing machines is one of the areas of improvement of construction materials production technologies. In connection with the needs of reworking old buildings in the conditions of dense urban development, mounted working bodies are becoming widespread. One of such attached working bodies is a crushing bucket. On the basis of the analysis of the latest researches, the prospects of hinged crushing buckets have been established. The paper examines the main constructions of crushing buckets produced by the industry. Criterion assessment of the main parameters of crushing buckets was carried out, based on which promising models for further research were established. The 3d model of the crushing bucket and the equation of motion for determining the main parameters are presented.

Disproportionate impacts of building materials production facilities on neighboring communities

Abstract The construction and building materials (CBM) production industries, such as cement, steel, and plastics that are responsible for a substantial share of global CO2 emissions, face increasing pressure to decarbonize. Recent legislative initiatives like the United States (US) federal Buy Clean Initiative and the World Green Building Council’s decarbonization plan for Europe highlights the urgency to reduce emissions during CBM production stages. However, there remains a gap in addressing the localized environmental and social impacts of these industries as well as a necessary understanding of how decarbonization efforts may change local impacts. This study introduces a framework for quantifying the disproportionate impacts (Id) of 12 CBM production facility categories on communities of color and low-income demographics across the US. Using geographical and environmental data from the 2017 National Emissions Inventory (NEI), we assess these impacts at four spatial scales: census tract, county, state, and national. Results show that across all scales, many CBM production facilities impose disproportionate impacts. The geographical disproportionate impact (IG,d) shows the greatest burdens at the broadest spatial scales, whereas the environmental disproportionate impact (IE,d) indicates highest burdens at more localized levels. Based on this spatial understanding, we provide methods that can be implemented to support community engagement and mitigate damages to populations neighboring industrial materials manufacturing. These findings offer valuable insights into the relationship between facility locations, emissions, and demographic groups, providing a basis for more targeted environmental justice policies aimed at mitigating these disproportionate impacts.

Characterization of high-performance composite bricks fabricated from recycled HDPE/PS blends and brick powder

Abstract This study explores the feasibility and benefits of utilizing plastic waste in the production of construction materials, specifically composite bricks. The escalating accumulation of plastic waste poses significant environmental challenges, which necessitates innovative approaches for recycling and re-utilization to mitigate pollution and reduce landfill use. Our research focuses on the synthesis of bricks by incorporating high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polystyrene (PS) with sand brick powder, utilizing a compatibilizer (SBS-g-MA) to enhance interfacial adhesion and mechanical integrity. The experimental methodology involved the preparation of composite materials through melt mixing, followed by molding to form brick specimens. These were analyzed for their mechanical properties, including tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and elongation at break, as well as thermal properties such as degradation temperature and crystallization behavior. Results showed that the inclusion of sand brick powder significantly enhances the thermal stability of the composites, as evidenced by the higher degradation temperatures observed. Specifically, the degradation temperature increased from 300.59 °C in pure HDPE/PS blends to 420.39 °C in composites with 7% brick powder, suggesting the formation of a protective barrier against thermal decomposition. Moreover, mechanical testing revealed that composites with up to 7% brick powder exhibited improved tensile strength and Young’s modulus compared to pure polymer blends.

Sustainable building solutions: A comprehensive study on PCPET waste-induced bricks

An exponential increase in plastic production and a substantial rise in plastic waste have forced scholars to seek a sustainable and groundbreaking solution that recycles/reuses plastic waste to minimize its adverse environmental impacts upon disposal. Having been used by various sectors, production of construction material from plastic waste has received more interest. Numerous studies have proven that shredded polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles constitute a valuable construction material where plastic waste management/recycling procedures are not effective. The goal of this study lies in factors such as strengthening construction material, reducing carbon emissions in atmosphere and minimizing overall costs. Manufacturing plastic M-sand bricks, and integrating post-consumer PET (PCPET) from single-use plastic water bottles into M-Sand is the main focus of our research. This work used two types of PCPET wastes (washed and unwashed) with different mix proportions of plastic and M-sand, such as 1:1, 1:2 and 2:1 for brick production. The bricks manufactured are tested for durability through compression, water absorption, efflorescence, and dimensional stability, and subsequently, Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for morphological assessment. By the conducted experiential results, it is evident that the design mixes M3 and M8 guarantee appreciable strength that is 2–1.5 times of other mix designs. The M3 design mix with one part washed PCPET and two parts M-sand has exhibited superior performance, with a compressive strength of 40.29 N/mm², minimal water absorption, and observed homogeneity in SEM. In addition, post-demolition sustainability is addressed by integrating recycled brick aggregate with M-sand, showing optimal results for design mix M8, including a compressive strength of 40.54 N/mm², favorable water absorption, and positive SEM findings. EDX confirmed zero carbon elements in the produced bricks. These findings prove the strength of our research on the sustainable recycling of waste thermoplastics within the circular economy, presenting a promising solution to environmental and economic challenges.

Quantifying the life cycle emissions of hybrid structures with advanced bio- and conventional materialization for low-embodied carbon urban densification of the Amsterdam Metropolitan Area

More than 20% of global carbon emissions are linked with the production of construction materials used in the built environment. The use of bio-materials along with urban densification strategies that avoid demolition and reduce material demand, have been recommended to achieve urban sustainability goals. Addressing these measures, this study compares the life cycle embodied carbon emissions of seven hybrid top-up structural systems composed of concrete, steel and advanced engineered timber products made out of softwood and hardwood species. The life cycle carbon emissions (expressed in kgCO2-eq) were estimated following a cradle-to-grave approach, with a functional unit equivalent to 1 m2 of top-up structural system and focusing on The Netherlands and the city of Amsterdam as main geographical scope. A statistical analysis was included to account for the potential variation of emissions across each life cycle stage, using Monte Carlo simulations for random sampling. The results indicate that predominantly bio-based structures present a staggering 60% lower embodied carbon emissions compared with predominantly concrete, steel and modestly hybrid systems. Preserving the long-term carbon storage capacity of timber elements through high-quality reuse can offset 30–60% of the total positive emissions of the predominantly bio-based systems. Up to 6MtCO2-eq of the national carbon budget in The Netherlands can be saved from a radical uptake of bio-based structures in Amsterdam by 2050. Diversification of material diets with bio-based alternatives is recommended, along with established policy that can guarantee sustainable sourcing and prolonged lifespans through high-end reuse practices.

Study of Mechanical Properties Using Carbonized Rice Husk and Eggshell to Prepare Sustainable Concrete and its Viability in Civil Construction

Sustainability has become an increasingly present concern in the construction industry, which has led to a search for more ecological and sustainable alternatives in the production of construction materials. In this context, research references have shown promising results in the use of carbonized rice husk and eggshell. The use of rice husk as a partial substitute for cement in concrete has proven to be effective in reducing environmental impact, since this residue has pozzolanic characteristics, providing greater resistance to the concrete. Eggshell, in turn, has been used as an additive in the production of mortars, providing improvements in the mechanical and thermal properties of these materials. These sustainable solutions in civil construction are aligned with the ESG agenda of companies, which are increasingly seeking minimize the environmental impact of its activities. The study verified through axial compression resistance tests that the composites prepared with 1.5 % (w/w) had superior compressive strength by around 20% compared to the composites prepared with 2 % (w/w). In other words, with a lower concentration it achieved a satisfactory reinforcement effect, better preserving the structure. From the analysis of the diametral compression resistance results, the concentration of 1.5% (w/w) showed a specific reinforcing effect, both with the use of crushed eggshells and with the use of carbonized rice husks dispersed in concrete. The concentration of 1.5% (w/w) showed a specific reinforcing effect, both with the use of crushed eggshells and with the use of carbonized rice husks dispersed in concrete. The lowest content of 1% (w/w) was not enough to reinforce the material, presenting the lowest yield strength values of 2.98 and 3.54 MPa for egg and rice, respectively. The values for 1.5% (w/w) reached values of 4.22 and 4.68 MPa, for egg and rice. Around 20% of the compounds prepared with the highest filler levels, both with crushed eggshell and carbonized rice husk.

Mechanical Characterization of Sustainable Mortars with Recycled Aggregates from Construction and Demolition Wastes: An Experimental Investigation.

The use of recycled aggregates in the production of concrete and mortar represents a sustainable way to reintroduce these constituents-which are typically treated as waste and disposed of-in the production chain, providing new value to potentially polluting materials. The effect of recycled aggregates has been widely studied in the production of concrete due to the directions of National Standards in Italy; however, their role in the manufacturing of mortar must be investigated further due to the high variability that can be observed in the literature. In particular, the aim of this paper is the mechanical characterization of sustainable mortars defined by different mix designs and different binders, in which the aggregates are gradually replaced by a recycled sand obtained from the grinding of construction and demolition wastes, which could include old concrete, clay bricks, and minimal amounts of other kinds of residual materials. This investigation is carried out through experimentation, taking into account four different mortar compositions defined by an increasing percentage of recycled constituents. Virgin aggregates are also studied for the sake of comparison. The results, accomplished through a three-point bending test and an unconfined compression test, show that it is still possible to maintain acceptable mechanical properties by using these wastes as aggregates in spite of a decrease in the analyzed values. In general, the mean reductions with respect to the use of natural aggregates are about 30-40% and 35-55%, respectively, for compressive and flexural strengths. It should be highlighted that some experimental sets provide a maximum reduction of 70-80%, but the results are still within the limitations of the standards. This aspect can be considered to be a good compromise since the production of this sustainable construction material can represent a solution that is able to reduce the extreme exploitation of natural resources, the pressure on landfills, and the consumption of energy, which are related to the construction industry.

Assessment of the Carbon Footprint of Production of Construction Materials Used in Hydrogen Energy

The results of the analysis of production of construction materials used for manufacturing hydrogen life cycle equipment are presented. The aspects of the life cycle of the main construction materials (steel, aluminum, nickel, copper, titanium, platinum, carbon plastics) used in hydrogen power engineering are identified. The results of the carbon footprint assessment for the production of these materials are presented depending on the production technologies, the energy source used and the secondary raw materials. It is established that in the development of a hydrogen gas turbine unit (GTU) the main contribution to carbon footprint is made by titanium (50,9 %) and nickel (37,6 %) alloys, in spite of the fact that more than 50 % of GTU consists of steel. It has been determined that in the production of solid-polymer fuel cells the main contribution to the carbon footprint is made by the smallest construction materials — platinum (78,1 %) and carbon plastics (15,7 %) due to the fact that they have the largest carbon footprint per kg of produced material.

A Review of the Utilization of Recycled Powder from Concrete Waste as a Cement Partial Replacement in Cement-Based Materials: Fundamental Properties and Activation Methods

Recycled powder (RP) is the primary by-product generated during the reclamation process of construction and demolition waste (CDW). There is existing literature on the use of RP as supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs) in cement-based materials, but a comprehensive evaluation on the characteristics of RP generated from concrete waste has been missing until now. This paper critically reviews the use of RP from concrete waste in cement-based materials, as concrete waste makes up a significant amount of CDW and other components have designated recycling methods. In this sense, this study conducted a critical analysis on the use of RP as an SCM, using detailed literature research. The technology used for producing RP is detailed along with its chemical, mineralogy, and microstructural characteristics. Fresh-state properties in cementitious matrices with RP are introduced with the view of mechanical grinding, thermal activation, carbonation, chemical treatment, biomineralization, mineral addition, nano activation, and carbonation. The review highlights the significant potential of utilizing RP in cement-based materials. Specifically, RP can be advantageously utilized in the production of value-added construction materials.

Sustainable enhancement of fly ash-based geopolymers: Impact of Alkali thermal activation and particle size on green production

Addressing the challenges posed by the slow reactivity of fly ash (FA) with alkali at ambient temperatures, this study delves into the enhancement of FA-based geopolymers through alkali thermal activation (ATA). The ATA process, conducted at 550°C for 1 h, significantly increases the availability of reactive silica and alumina, which are essential for geopolymerization. A critical focus of the research is the influence of FA particle size on ATA’s efficacy and the resultant mechanical properties of the geopolymers. Findings reveal that the ATA process facilitates the rapid dissolution of the vitreous phase in FA. This leads to a sequential release of silica and alumina, which is pivotal for the geopolymer’s matrix development. Notably, geopolymers synthesized from finely milled FA, post-ATA, demonstrate a marked increase in compressive strength, escalating from 30.51 MPa to an impressive 38.46 MPa. The study meticulously delineates geopolymerization into four distinct stages—initial dissolution, depolymerization, geopolycondensation and gelation, and final diffusion, with the initial dissolution and final diffusion stages being paramount in defining the reaction kinetics and the ultimate strength of the geopolymer. This enhanced understanding paves the way for optimizing FA utilization in geopolymers, promising a more sustainable and efficient pathway for producing construction materials with superior mechanical properties.

Low-NOx thermal plasma torches: A renewable heat source for the electrified process industry

Industrial thermal plasma torches can heat a gas up to 5000–20,000 K, i.e., well above the temperature needed to replace the heat generated from the combustion of traditional fossil fuels (e.g., coal, oil, and natural gas) in large-scale process industry furnaces producing construction materials (e.g., iron, steel, lime, and cement). However, there is a risk for significant NOx emissions when air or N2 are used as plasma-forming gas since the temperature somewhere in the furnace always will be higher compared to the threshold NOx formation temperature of ∼1800 K. Torch NOx forms inside the high temperature region of the plasma torch (>5000 K) when air is used as gas. Process NOx forms instead when the hot gas (when air or nitrogen is used as plasma forming gas) from the plasma torch mixes with process air downstream the torch. By analysing the complex chemistry of both the torch- and process NOx formation with thermodynamic equilibrium and one-dimensional chemical kinetic calculations it was shown that adding H2 to the plasma-forming N2 gas significantly reduces the NOx emissions with more than 90 %. Verifying experiments with air, pure N2, and mixtures of H2 and N2 as plasma-forming gas were performed in a laboratory scale insulated laboratory furnace with different pre-heating temperatures of process air (293, 673, and 1073 K) which the plasma gas mixes with downstream the torch. Depending on the pre-heating temperature the NOx emissions were between 12,000–14,000 mg NO2/MJfuel when air was used as plasma forming gas. Substantial NOx emission reduction occurs both when N2 replaces air, where the NOx emissions was in the span of 8000–11,500 mg NO2/MJfuel and furthermore when H2 was mixed into the N2 gas stream. For the highest degree of H2 mixing (28.6 vol-%), the NOx emissions were between 450–1700 mg NO2/MJfuel depending on the pre-heat temperature of the process air, i.e., a reduction of 88–96 % and 85–94 %, respectively when air or N2 was used as plasma forming gas. The measured NOx emissions are then of the same order of magnitude as would be expected from the combustion of traditional fuels (coal, oil, biomass and pure H2). Finally, by analysing the aerodynamics in an axisymmetric furnace with an experimentally validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model using reduced chemistry for the NOx formation (19 species and 70 reactions), further guidelines into the process of NOx reduction from thermal plasma torches are given.

Recycling of magnesium oxychloride cement: Application of crushed MOC waste as a filler in the next-generation MOC composites

This study deals with magnesium oxychloride- (MOC-) based construction composites in which, a filler formed from end-of-life MOC-based composite recyclate is used as a partial or full replacement of standard quartz sand filler. The developed composites pose as a highly environmentally sustainable alternative to Portland cement (PC), which has dominated the global construction sector, largely due to its unique properties and adaptability to various conditions. As the PC industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, it is ultimately necessary to find a suitable alternative. In our study, we demonstrated that the proposed composite, even with a very high content of the MOC-based recyclate performs well concerning its mechanical parameters evidenced by compressive strength exceeding 64 MPa. The developed composites also yield a low water absorption of about 3.3 wt% and even when exposed to the harsh environment of 95 % RH for 7 days, their softening coefficient reaches values higher than 85 %. The acquired material parameters of the prepared composites make them suitable for application in the production of construction materials with high mechanical strength and acceptable resistance to the action of moisture. The approach which was taken, where MOC-based construction waste can be fully reutilized in the next generation of MOC composites as a filler represents a very promising route for the development of waste-free and CO2-neutral technology.

Систематизация рабочих органов машин глубокого фрезерования

Currently, ensuring energy security is a key priority for the country. Peat resources account for one-third of the country's total energy potential. Apart from energy production, peat finds extensive use in agriculture, chemical industry, construction, and the production of construction materials. Presently, milled peat constitutes the main volume of production in the country. The technology of its extraction involves preparing areas and removing undergrowth, stumps, and wood debris during preparation of the deposit by trenching or deep milling. However, due to the imperfections of the equipment, peat contamination and loss of its quality occur. This article analyzes means for carrying out preparatory operations to condition the surface of the deposit. It discusses the designs of end effectors for deep milling machines, their cutting structures, and the specific features of the tools used, i.e. blades, cutters, mills, chains. Classification of end effectors for peat machines as well as tools for deep milling of the deposit surface is proposed. This systematization involves identifying classification features by the type of machines, impact on the wood debris, movement of the end effector, its arrangement and design, as well as by parameters and types of the end effector’s cutting structures. The article may be useful for engineers, researchers, graduate students, and organizations involved in designing and studying processes of peat deposits conditioning.

Green Building and Energy-Efficient Design

In the modern era, the rapid expansion of infrastructure is a crucial indicator of a country's development. However, this growth must be balanced with environmental conservation to ensure the well-being of humans and other living organisms. The construction industry, a significant development driver, is also a primary source of environmental pollution, contributing to approximately 40% of air pollution. The production and transportation of construction materials, particularly cement and steel, are primary culprits. These processes release substantial amounts of CO2, a greenhouse gas that deteriorates the ozone layer and exacerbates global warming. Cement production accounts for 8-10% of global anthropogenic CO2 emissions, while steel manufacturing contributes about 5-10%. These emissions harm the environment and adversely affect human living conditions. Although it is challenging to eliminate CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions, adopting sustainable living practices, such as the construction of green buildings, offers a viable path toward mitigation. Green or sustainable buildings are designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to minimize adverse environmental impacts and promote occupant health and well being. These structures aim to reduce resource consumption, increase energy efficiency, improve indoor air quality, and decrease the overall environmental footprint compared to traditional buildings. By prioritizing Sustainability, green buildings present an effective strategy to address the ecological challenges the construction industry poses, paving the way for a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between development and the natural world.

Geopolymer composites reinforced with silverskin fibers from the coffee industry waste

This paper aims to develop sustainable geopolymer composites reinforced with silverskin fibers derived from coffee industry waste. Geopolymer and geopolymer composites were synthesized from blast furnace slags (BFS) with a solid/liquid (alkaline solution) ratio of 1.4. A sodium metasilicate/sodium hydroxide (Na2SiO3/NaOH) mixture at a mass ratio of 2.5 served as the alkaline activator in the geopolymerization process. The composites were evaluated by incorporating 2%, 3%, and 5% by weight of silverskin fibers, which were used in their natural form (SGCn), after treatment with sodium hydroxide (SGCNaOH), and after treatment with sodium hydroxide followed by a steam explosion process (SGCSE).Characterizations of the geopolymer composites included X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) for elemental oxide identification, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) for functional group detection, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) for thermal stability assessment. The influence of fibers on the hardness of the geopolymer materials was evaluated using hardness scale measurements. Morphologies, microstructures, and elemental compositions were analyzed through field emission gun scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FEG-SEM/EDS).The results demonstrate that the incorporation of silverskin fibers, especially those treated with NaOH and subjected to steam explosion, significantly enhances the thermal stability of geopolymer composites. The 5% NaOH-treated fiber composite exhibited the highest Tmax and Tend, indicating superior thermal stability. Additionally, the 5% SGCNaOH composite showed the highest residual mass, further supporting the enhanced thermal stability of these composites.Unlike other fibers, which showed a decrease in hardness, the addition of SGCSE fibers maintains a relatively high hardness in the geopolymer composites. The 2% SGCSE composite exhibited an average hardness equal to that of the pure geopolymer at 66 Shore D.These findings underscore the potential of using treated silverskin fibers to develop more thermally stable, cost-effective, and sustainable geopolymer materials. By utilizing industrial residues and waste, these advanced materials can be applied in the production of construction and building materials, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.

Assessment of the opportunities of demolition waste using as a building material of the future in Ukraine

The object of research is the potential of secondary use of waste from the destruction of buildings and structures, which were formed as a result of the military aggression of the Russian Federation on the territory of Ukraine. For Ukraine, the issue of demolition waste is critical at the level of environmental safety and ensuring the demand for building materials for the reclamation of Ukraine according to the principles of the circular economy. To date, there are no official methods that would allow to determine the exact amount of destruction and the quality of the material formed, which complicates the development of mechanisms for its utilization in production. The key industry considered during the research for disposal of demolition waste is the industry of construction materials production. In the course of research, it was determined that most of the generated waste is waste from the destruction of buildings and structures made of precast concrete, however, considering that these wastes are generated by the action of explosions from shells. It is very difficult to ensure their compliance with the requirements of current standards due to the inclusion that such waste can contain. Therefore, the problem considered by this study is the determination of the nature of waste from the destruction of buildings and structures, their physical, mechanical and chemical characteristics, in the context of the final applications of products based on them. The results of the study showed that when reproducing the concrete mix for tared concrete for civil purposes, which do not have high requirements for stability in aggressive operating conditions, when replacing natural aggregate crushed to a fraction of 5 to 20 mm, the requirements for concrete strength are achieved in the level of C40/50 strength class. But the rheological characteristics deteriorate due to the high absorption of water from the concrete mixture by the studied material. Research has shown that for further use in the production of ready-mixed concrete and precast concrete products, it is necessary to prepare demolition waste with a wide particle size distribution and low dust content. This can ensure a high level of recycling and meet the demand for concrete in the reconstruction of Ukraine. The fine aggregate from the demolition waste crushing process can be considered as secondary cementitious material for cement production.

Ecological modernization at construction industry enterprises as an innovative production and management technology

The article delves into the pivotal role of ecological modernization, specifically the environmentalization of production at enterprises in the building materials sector. A comprehensive study was conducted on the product range of Ivano-Frankivskcement PJSC, one of the largest enterprises in the Western region. This case study serves as a tangible example, demonstrating that the adoption of environmentally friendly production necessitates both the environmentalization of production processes and management. The implementation of a comprehensive environmentalization strategy involves the incorporation of ecologically oriented measures in both the internal and external environments of the production system, while the environmentalization of the management system entails a restructuring of organizational forms and management methods to align with ecological principles. It was established that an essential part of ecological modernization is the introduction of environmental management systems. This includes requirements for waste and its processing, control over the use of water resources, and implementation of environmental certification and standards. Ecological modernization at enterprises in the construction industry helps to reduce the sector's ecological impact on the environment, contributes to the preservation of natural resources, and improves people's quality of life. It is proposed that enterprises producing building materials switch to the use of a dry method of production - an innovative technology that will contribute to the reduction of morbidity in the population and will protect the natural environment from harmful impurities and combustion products. The main advantage of this is energy-saving and highly efficient cement production technologies. It is emphasized that when carrying out production activities, enterprises in the field of production of construction materials should also apply management technologies of controlling, outsourcing, foresight, etc., with the help of which adverse environmental and economic problems can be detected promptly, and suggestions for their elimination can be made. Keywords: ecological modernization, "green" technologies, enterprise, business entity, management, production, ecological situation.

Experiments Using Different Types of Waste to Manufacture Ceramic Materials: Examples on a Laboratory Scale

Reusing waste as raw materials to produce other materials can entail a decrease in production costs and in the abusive use of natural resources. Furthermore, it can even improve the properties of the end product or material. In this sense, a review of the most relevant literature published in recent decades shows that numerous solutions have been proposed or implemented, such as its use to produce construction materials, catalysts, pigments, pozzolana, refractory materials, glass-ceramic products, etc. Our research group has verified the viability of using different types of waste as secondary raw materials to obtain several types of ceramic, glassy and glassceramic materials, as well as frits. This article highlights several types of industrial waste that have both non-toxic (Li, Ca and Mn) and highly toxic (Cr VI) differentiating elements that can be used in sintering and vitrification industrial processes to immobilise them or render them inert. We studied the compositions and characterised the various materials obtained, conducting toxicity and leaching tests on waste/materials designed with high amounts of chromium. A suggestion for future lines of research has been proposed.