Microstructure and mineralogy of lightweight aggregates manufactured from mining and industrial wastes

Abstract

The microstructure and mineralogy of lightweight aggregates manufactured with washing aggregate sludge, sewage sludge and a clay-rich sediment have been studied. The mineralogical analysis revealed the neo-formation of plagioclase and pyroxene group minerals and a minor presence of gehlenite. Some relationships may be established: (i) heating temperature and dwell time affect the formation of new porosity; (ii) the disappearance of pyroxenes could produce changes in the density of the solid material in the lightweight aggregates; (iii) when an external glassy film is not present, water absorption values depend on the size and number of each type of pore.