Waste generated during the processing of non-metallic minerals

Industrial activity for the processing of non-metallic minerals is accompanied by the formation of a significant amount of waste, which may contain dangerous chemical elements. These wastes require special attention and effective treatment methods, because they pose a significant risk to the environment and human health.

Hazardous waste generated in the process of physical and chemical processing of non-metallic minerals may contain toxic metals, asbestos, chemical reagents and other harmful components. These substances require proper handling, as their uncontrolled storage and use can lead to serious environmental problems.

Types of hazardous waste generated during the processing of non-metallic minerals

In the process of physical and chemical processing of non-metallic minerals, various types of waste containing hazardous substances are formed. Their features and potential impact on the environment deserve detailed consideration:

• Asbestos-containing waste: leftover asbestos-containing materials are particularly dangerous because asbestos fibers can cause serious respiratory diseases and cancer when inhaled.
• Slags and ashes: the waste left after the burning of coal fuels in industrial furnaces often contains heavy metals and other toxic components.
• Chemically polluted waters: waters produced as a result of washing processes may contain chemicals and metals that require specialized treatment before discharge into bodies of water.
• Residual clays and sands: after removal of useful components, these materials often contain insoluble chemical residues that can contaminate soil and water.
• Toxic metals: wastes containing cadmium, lead, mercury and other toxic metals require special treatment and storage methods to minimize risks to health and the environment.

Each of these types of waste requires an individual approach in terms of treatment and management in order to minimize their impact on the ecosystem and human health. The implementation of modern technologies and methods of environmental management allows optimizing these processes and providing safe conditions for employees and residents of the surrounding areas.

This detailed information about the types of waste expands the understanding of the problem and emphasizes the importance of proper management of these materials to ensure environmental safety.

Waste generated in the process of physical and chemical processing of non-metallic minerals and containing hazardous substances. Code according to the National list of waste 01 04 07*  Operations according to Annexes 1, 2 to the Law of Ukraine “On Waste Management”  R4, D10.

Reducing the negative impact of hazardous waste, which is generated during the physical and chemical processing of non-metallic minerals, is possible thanks to the application of an integrated approach. This includes the introduction of innovative technologies, improved waste management and education of the parties involved.

• Improving production technologies: introduction of technological innovations that allow reducing the amount of waste at the stage of their formation. For example, the use of equipment for deep filtration, which is able to separate toxic components from useful ones, thereby reducing the amount of hazardous waste.
• Recycling and reuse of materials (R4): development of methods of secondary processing of waste to transform them into new materials or products. This may include the creation of construction materials from mining waste or the use of chemical waste as raw materials in other chemical processes.
• Improving waste collection and storage methods: application of modern methods of waste collection and safe storage that minimize the risk of leakage and environmental pollution. It is important to develop closed-loop systems where waste is recycled and reused without harming the environment.
• Implementation of strict environmental standards: regulation of activities related to the processing of non-metallic minerals through strict environmental norms and standards. It is important to ensure compliance with these standards by all market participants in order to reduce the impact of waste on the environment.
• Education and public involvement: raising awareness among businesses and local communities about the importance of proper waste management. The development of training programs and public involvement campaigns can contribute to increasing responsibility and intensifying efforts to protect the environment (D10).

The application of these methods can significantly improve the treatment and management of hazardous waste, creating a safer and more sustainable environment for future generations. These measures will not only reduce the impact on the environment, but also allow businesses to reduce costs through more efficient use of resources and materials.