The LCA Methodology for Ceramic Tiles Production by Addition of MSWI BA

Giuseppe Sappa, Silvia Iacurto, Adelaide Ponzi, Fabio Tatti, Vincenzo Torretta and Paolo Viotti
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Giuseppe Sappa: CRITEVAT, Research Center of Engineering for the Protection and Enhancement of the Environment and the Territory, Sapienza University of Rome, 02100 Rieti, Italy
Silvia Iacurto: Department of Civil Engineering, La Sapienza University, 00184 Roma, Italy
Adelaide Ponzi: Department of Civil Engineering, La Sapienza University, 00184 Roma, Italy
Fabio Tatti: Department of Civil Engineering, La Sapienza University, 00184 Roma, Italy
Vincenzo Torretta: Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Insubria University, 21100 Varese, Italy
Paolo Viotti: Department of Civil Engineering, La Sapienza University, 00184 Roma, Italy

Resources, 2019, vol. 8, issue 2, 1-21

Abstract: Integrated waste management and sustainable use of natural resources are the basis of the Green Economy. In this context, the management of the Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ashes (MSWI BA) is one of the current issues worldwide. This paper presents an application of the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) procedure to the industrial production of ceramic tiles using bottom ashes in the mixture together with feldspathic sands and clays. The comparison between ashes and traditional mixture showed a similar mineralogical and rheological composition. In the reported procedure the MSWI BA, after storage, were treated to separate and recover metals. The residual ashes were added to the mixture and then they followed the traditional industrial production cycle. Samples of the different materials were taken during the experimental industrial activity and leaching tests were carried out to verify the environmental compatibility of MSWI BA use to produce ceramic tiles. The results of the LCA show large environmental and energy benefits related to the proposed reuse of BA. Metal recovery and lower use of clay in traditional mixture avoids emission of substances with a negative potential impact for environment. This study provides a sustainable alternative to the MSWI BA final disposal in landfill as MSWI BA are hazardous wastes that present complicated management and high disposal costs.

Keywords: bottom ashes; ceramic tiles; green economy; waste management; LCA (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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