WASTE MANAGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION BY THE USE OF WASTE FUELS IN THE CEMENT PRODUCTION

Abstract

The cement industry is closely connected to the environment. The production process requires energy and that leads to emissions. Brown coal and hard coal were the predominant sources of energy in Germany in the past. At present, there are many cement factories in Germany which use, up to 75 % of secondary fuels (tyres, waste oil, waste plastic, liquid /solid) in the production of cement. Cement plants differ in specialized waste burning constructions. They cannot be considered as a waste disposal plant for all kinds of waste. Utilization of waste is a possibility because its chemical composition is comparable with fuels and raw materials which are normally used. Past experiences have shown that the cement industry can play an important part in the utilization of secondary fuels. Key factors include favourable conditions inside rotary tube kilns, optimised process and safety technology, improved exhaust gas cleaning systems and a comprehensive control of the input substances.