Partial replacement of CPV-ARI cement by water treatment plant sludge (WTS)

Abstract

The sludge generated during the water treatment process to supply the population is most often improperly disposed of in the water bodies, causing negative environmental impacts. In this context, the present study aimed at the valorization of the water treatment plant sludge (ETA) through its incorporation in Portland ce-ment. The methodology consisted of producing of Portland cement pastes (CP V-ARI) containing ETA sludge in substitution contents of 0, 10 and 20%. Mechanical strength and hydrated compounds were evalu-ated by XRD, TG / DTG and SEM tests, as well as conduction calorimetry. Replacing CPV-ARI cement by ETA sludge reduced compressive strength, especially at 7 days. It was possible to observe a higher formation of ettringite in the samples containing ETA sludge, which probably negatively influenced the mechanical behavior. However, the incorporation of the compounds present in the ETA sludge in the cementitious matrix was observed, showing that the use of ETA sludge in Portland cement may indicate a safe alternative for its final destination.