Feasibility study on the use of metallurgical slag in the production of thermophosphates

This study investigates the feasibility of reducing metallurgical slag to obtain reactive oxides which, when combined with hydroxyapatite, can form a thermophosphate of high agronomic value. Metallurgical slag is an industrial waste product rich in calcium, iron, and silica, which can be reused in fertilizers. Hydroxyapatite, on the other hand, is a stable source of phosphorus, and its interaction with slag oxides can promote the solubilization of the nutrients in the soil. The process involves the thermal reduction of slag, followed by controlled mixing with hydroxyapatite to promote the formation of phosphate compounds with greater availability for plants. The analysis includes chemical and structural characterization of the products formed to assess their effectiveness as a fertilizer. The expected results include a controlled-release material that is environmentally sustainable and economically viable, contributing to the reuse of industrial waste and efficiency in crop nutrition.

Faculty Supervisor:

Flavia Braghiroli

Student:

Partner:

Universidade de São Paulo

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue

Program: