Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/221992
Title: Laser-Induced Surface Vitrification for the Sustainable Stabilization of Copper Tailings
Author: Sáez-Navarrete, César
Baraza, Xavier
Ramos-Grez, Jorge
Sans Mazón, Carme
Arauzo, Claudia
Coca, Yoandy
Keywords: Protecció ambiental
Vitrificació
Residus perillosos
Environmental protection
Vitrification
Hazardous wastes
Issue Date: 20-Jun-2025
Publisher: MDPI
Abstract: This study introduces CO2 laser surface vitrification as an innovative method for managing copper mining tailings, offering a sustainable solution to critical challenges in mineral processing. This technique transforms tailings into a stable and impermeable layer, immobilizing hazardous metals contained within them. By achieving vitrification at the surface level and operating at temperatures around 1200 °C, the process significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional vitrification methods, making it suitable for large-scale applications in remote mining sites. Detailed geochemical and mechanical analyses confirmed the formation of a dense vitreous matrix with high hardness (7.19–7.48 GPa) and reduced permeability, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations. However, the brittle nature of the vitrified layer underscores the need for further research to enhance mechanical resilience. This work positions CO2 laser vitrification as a transformative approach for integrating energy-efficient technologies into mineral processing, addressing key environmental concerns while advancing the sustainable management of mining waste.
Note: Reproducció del document publicat a: https://doi.org/10.3390/su17135676
It is part of: Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17
URI: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/221992
Related resource: https://doi.org/10.3390/su17135676
ISSN: 2071-1050
Appears in Collections:Articles publicats en revistes (Enginyeria Química i Química Analítica)

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