03/09/2021
Ceramic Materials: Non-Polluting Engineering Solutions
Most technical ceramics are exclusively inert and non-toxic, which means they are largely non-polluting. For example, aluminum oxide (alumina) powder is categorized as safe for use in cosmetic products, including antiperspirant deodorant, indicating minimal-to-no-risk of bioaccumulation, cytotoxicity, immunotoxicity, or reproductive toxicity.
Meanwhile, zirconia is one of the most frequently used dental biomaterials around the world. The astounding biocompatibility of such materials is a symptom of their intrinsic inertness, which also accounts for their general lack of decomposition over time.
Recyclability is another key factor of sustainability; how effectively materials can be reused and recycled. As ceramic materials do not deteriorate naturally, they do not simply decompose into raw materials for reformation. However, once aggregated, there are novel applications on hand for so-called ceramic waste.
A number of engineers have transformed this shortcoming into a potential sustainable solution, utilizing recycled crushed ceramic rubble (RCCR) to stabilize expansive soil and advance progress in geotechnical engineering.
Studies have demonstrated the technical practicability of RCCR for stabilizing expansive, highly expansive soils (HES). Therefore, beyond its component life cycle, aggregated ceramic waste continues to contribute to a healthy environment.
https://www.johncera.com/research-and-development/sustainability-in-technical-ceramics.html
