INERTIZATION OF CHROMIUM LIQUID WASTE IN INORGANIC POLYMERS VIA ALKALI ACTIVATION OF METAKAOLIN

In the present work, a hazardous waste deriving from the colouring process of ceramic tiles surfaces was immobilized in geopolymeric inorganic matrix. This waste is in liquid homogeneous form composed prevalently of aqueous solutions of metals compounds which develop colours during the firing cycle. The colorant solution contains Fe, Mo, Mn, Co, Cr, depending on the final colour, together with mineralisers and complexes. One of the innovative aspects of this research is the exploitation of water content of the waste and the absence of the drying step, the latter being a common step in the management of liquid hazardous wastes.