Specialists from the Institute of Non-Ferrous Metals of Siberian Federal University (part of the Yeniseiskaya Sibir Research Center) proposed reducing the carbon footprint of aluminum production using waste from the mining and metallurgical industry. Scientists have found that some types of industrial waste can successfully absorb and accumulate carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. The development is relevant for the Krasnoyarsk Territory, which has a well-developed metallurgical industry.
SibFU scientists conducted research at the Achinsk Alumina Combine and came to the conclusion that the waste generated during production (belitic sludge) can act as a kind of natural filter that reduces the concentration of carbon dioxide. The results of the work showed that one ton of such industrial material is potentially capable of holding hundreds of kilograms of carbon dioxide. For large-scale industries, this can be a significant contribution to reducing emissions.
The authors of the study note that the potential of belitic sludge is not yet fully utilized. In addition to traditional economic applications, such materials can become part of carbon capture technologies. The use of this method will allow us to simultaneously solve two tasks at once u2014 to use industrial waste more efficiently and reduce the impact of metallurgy on the climate. In addition, the development of technology can be an important step towards more environmentally friendly industrial processes and rational use of resources.
Cover photo: SFU Press Service