Utilization of Industrial Borax Wastes (BW) for Portland Cement Production

Authors: İFFET YAKAR ELBEYLİ

Abstract: Industrial borax wastes (BWs) are formed as solid waste during the production of borax from tincal [Na_2B_4O_5(OH)_4.8H_2O] in Bandırma, Turkey. These wastes cause different environmental problems and lead to economic losses because of high boron oxide (B_2O_3) content. The primary aim of this study is the removal of B_2O_3 from BWs and the second aim is the usage of BWs with low boron content in cement as an additive material. For this purpose, the BW was treated with water for removal of boron oxide and to reduce its toxic effects. After washing, treated and untreated BW was added to the Portland cement (PC42.5 type) at a ratio of 5\%. The final products were tested for compressive strength, setting time, Le Chatelier expansion and fineness properties and the results were compared with Portland cement properties and European Standards (EN 196). The results showed that BW that has a high boron level caused a decrease in compressive strength and increase the soundness expansion in Portland cement. It was concluded that BW can be used as a cement additive after decreasing boron oxide and water-soluble impurities.

Keywords: B_2O_3, Borax wastes, Cement, Compressive strength

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