Characterization of Waste from the Production of Titanium Dioxide (UOW) for Reuse in Other Processes

Abstract

The reuse of waste generated in several industrial processes through the development of new materials for civil construction has been shown to be a viable alternative to meet environmental issues. New products can be developed that satisfy the expected performance and durability requirements while including this material. The main starting point for the development of projects that seek the safe use of these wastes is an extensive characterization. Unreacted Ore Waste (UOW), a waste generated during the production of titanium dioxide (TiO2), was characterized in terms of its physical, chemical, mineralogical, environmental, and radiological, as well as thermal properties. There is currently no effective reuse plan for UOW and it is disposed of in industrial landfills. From the characterization, possible routes for using UOW are identified, such as its addition to mortars with photocatalytic potential, and its use as a raw material in the production of Portland cement and ceramic materials.