Fibrecement recycling as raw material for Portland clinker production

This paper aims to examine the use of fibre cement waste as an alternative raw material for clinker kilns with enumeration of the possible limitations. The ultimate aim is to find a nobler use for fibrecement waste and to develop a more sustainable production of Portland clinker by saving natural resources and with a potential effect of reduction of CO2 emissions. Numerical simulations are carried out to maximize the use of fibrecement waste in clinker kilns, taking into account the chemical variation of the waste, its behaviour within a clinker kiln, the impact on energy consumption and finally the influence on the carbon footprint calculated from the decarbonation and the fuels used. Furthermore, experimental clinkers are produced and analysed according to the above described concept and corresponding with waste dosages that are esteemed as realistic. The use of fibre cement waste as an alternative raw material was found to be possible, without compromising the physical, chemical or mineralogical properties of the clinker.