Paving blocks with tannery sludge: effects of proportion and curing on integrity and immobilization

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17765/2176-9168.2026v19.e13987

Keywords:

Solidification/stabilization, Tannery sludge, Heavy metals, Circular economy, Waste valorization

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of tannery sludge proportion and curing time on the mechanical integrity and contaminant immobilization of cement-based materials treated by solidification/stabilization (S/S), aiming at their application in paving blocks. Mechanical integrity was evaluated through compressive strength tests, in accordance with ABNT NBR 7215 (2025), while contaminant immobilization was assessed by chemical oxygen demand (COD), mass balance, and retention efficiency. Material classification followed ABNT NBR 10004 (2024), and characterization was performed using atomic absorption spectrometry and X-ray diffraction. A 2? factorial design with three central point replicates was adopted, considering sludge contents of 10%, 25%, and 40% and curing times of 7, 17.5, and 28 days. Statistical analysis was conducted using ANOVA (p < 0.05). Results indicated that both factors significantly affected material performance. Compressive strength ranged from 47.540 to 62.580 MPa, meeting the requirements for paving applications. The optimal condition was observed at 25% sludge and 17 days of curing. Although a reduction in contaminant load was achieved compared to the raw residue, COD values remained above 1000 mg L?¹ and some metals exceeded regulatory limits, indicating only partial environmental risk attenuation. The S/S technique demonstrated potential for waste reuse, provided its environmental limitations are considered.

 

 

Author Biographies

Laedson Eneas Cavalcante, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande

 

 

 

Maria Sabrina Soares de Morais, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande

 

 

Ana Cristina Silva Muniz, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande

 

 

 

 

Andre Luiz Fiquene de Brito, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande

 

 

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Published

2026-07-02

How to Cite

Cavalcante, L. E., Morais, M. S. S. de, Muniz, A. C. S., & Brito, A. L. F. de. (2026). Paving blocks with tannery sludge: effects of proportion and curing on integrity and immobilization. Revista Em Agronegócio E Meio Ambiente, 19, e13987. https://doi.org/10.17765/2176-9168.2026v19.e13987

Issue

Section

Meio Ambiente e Tecnologias Limpas

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