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Ceramics
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Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World
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Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World

A special issue of Ceramics (ISSN 2571-6131).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 May 2025 | Viewed by 6874

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Francesco Baino

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Guest Editor
Institute of Materials Physics and Engineering, Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
Interests: ceramics; glasses; porous materials; additive manufacturing; bioactive glasses; bioceramics; composites; tissue engineering; multifunctional biomaterials; biomedical scaffolds; advanced ceramics; sustainable materials; waste management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Pardeep Gianchandani

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Guest Editor
1. Institute of Materials Physics and Engineering, Department of Applied Science and Technology, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Turin, Italy
2. Department of Textile Engineering, Mehran University of Engineering & Technology, Jamshoro 76062, Sindh, Pakistan
Interests: additive manufacturing; porous ceramics; advanced ceramics; sustainable materials; composites; ceramic matrix composites; joining; sandwich structures; SiC foams
Dr. Enrico Fabrizio

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Guest Editor
Dipartimento Energia (DENERG), Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, 10129 Torino, Italy
Interests: sustainable building; low carbon architecture; energy efficiency in buildings
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Bartolomeo Megna

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Guest Editor
Dipartimento di Ingegneria, Università di Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, Ed. 6, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: geopolymers; cultural heritage; Raman spectroscopy; lime mortars; sustainable materials; natural fibers in composites
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Manuela Ceraulo

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Guest Editor
Department of Engineering, University of Palermo, Viale dellle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: materials; composite; nanocomposite; geopolymers; recycling
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The continuous growth in industrial operations and product demand following the rise in the global population has led to the overexploitation of natural resources, which is associated with the generation of huge amounts of waste, pollution and carbon dioxide emissions. The traditional model of the economy is linear, i.e., extract resources, produce goods, use products and dispose of waste, resulting in obvious impacts on the environment and human health.

In an attempt to avoid the negative impacts of the traditional linear economy, a new paradigm has emerged based on a circular economy, the implementation of which relies on fundamental changes throughout the value chain, including new approaches for product design and manufacturing technologies, new business models and novel strategies to preserve natural resources and recycle waste into new (secondary) resources, as well as new behaviours, common practices and education.

Ceramics can indeed play a role in this change in paradigm. Over recent years, environmental issues have become the challenges of interest in many industrial ceramic processes, pushing researchers to develop strategies for reducing the processing temperatures and power supply needed (ceramics are typically produced by sintering, and glass is produced by melting). In addition, ceramics researchers are focused on reducing pollution (e.g., minimizing the use of non-eco-friendly solvents), greenhouse gas emissions and the overall generation of waste and its disposal in landfills. Indeed, all of these achievements are also expected to yield economic benefits for companies and overall society and reduce the impact of the use of materials on the built environment.

This Special Issue focuses on several areas related to ceramics, glasses and composites, including but not limited to the following: industrial materials, construction and finishing materials, natural materials, waste management, recycling and reuse, the optimization of resources and raw materials, life cycle assessment, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, renewable energy sources, testing and characterization and regulatory aspects.

This Special Issue aims to build a platform for discussion among various stakeholders involved in the ceramics community and sustainable growth, including researchers from academia, industry and government. This valuable exchange of ideas, methods and results will be key in adjusting to the needs of a world which has infinite desires but finite resources.

Dr. Francesco Baino
Dr. Pardeep Gianchandani
Dr. Enrico Fabrizio
Dr. Bartolomeo Megna
Dr. Manuela Ceraulo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Ceramics is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • ceramics
  • glass
  • composites
  • waste management
  • cement
  • concrete
  • mortar
  • aggregates
  • clay
  • oxides
  • natural materials
  • geopolymers
  • energy consumption
  • sustainability
  • circular economy
  • recycling
  • upcycling
  • carbon neutrality
  • recycled fibers
  • 3D printing

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 8493 KiB  
Article
Effect of Alkaline Activated Cashew Nut Shell Ash in the Stabilization of Weak Clayey Soil—An Experimental Study
by Parthiban Devarajan, Dhanasingh Sivalinga Vijayan, Shanmuga Sundar Saravanabhavan, Arvindan Sivasuriyan, Naveen Sankaran, Theodoros Chrysanidis and Zineb Moujoud
Ceramics 2024, 7(4), 1836-1854; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7040115 - 30 Nov 2024
Viewed by 508
Abstract
Weak clayey soils in construction are considered problematic due to their high compressibility and low bearing capacity. This study proposes an environmentally friendly replacement for conventional soil stabilizers through the use of geopolymer (GP) containing Cashew Nut Shell Ash (CNSA) to improve soil [...] Read more.
Weak clayey soils in construction are considered problematic due to their high compressibility and low bearing capacity. This study proposes an environmentally friendly replacement for conventional soil stabilizers through the use of geopolymer (GP) containing Cashew Nut Shell Ash (CNSA) to improve soil characteristics. In this study, the CNSAGP was compared with lime-stabilized soil for unconfined compressive strength (UCS), durability, and improved microstructure. The experimental outcomes showed that 9 M + CNSAGP with 4% CNSA provided a UCS of 1900 kPa, which was higher than the lime-stabilized soil (6% lime with 4% CNSA) at 1400 kPa. Durability test results revealed that the CNSAGP-treated sample had better protection against water damage with a strength loss of about 18%, while the lime-treated sample had a strength loss of about 25%. Thermal stability analysis showed that CNSAGP had lower LOI values compared to lime-stabilized samples (0.17% at 900 °C), which indicates CNSAGP’s heat resistance. Microstructure analysis revealed that CNSAGP-stabilized soil was less porous, the microstructure being denser because of reactions of aluminosilicate and pozzolanic activity. Moreover, it affected the soil’s alkalinity, making it better, and improved Atterberg limits, which affected the plasticity and workability. These findings show that CNSAGP is a long-lasting and eco-friendly means of soil stabilization with higher strength, thermal stability, and durability than traditional methods and can be used in engineering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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16 pages, 3887 KiB  
Article
Evolution of CO2 Uptake Degree of Ordinary Portland Cement During Accelerated Aqueous Mineralisation
by Giuseppe Ferrara, Pedro Humbert, Davide Garufi and Paola Palmero
Ceramics 2024, 7(4), 1711-1726; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7040109 - 11 Nov 2024
Viewed by 494
Abstract
The utilisation of carbonation treatments to produce building materials is emerging as a valuable strategy to reduce CO2 emissions in the construction sector. It is of great importance to regulate the degree of carbonation when the mineralisation process is combined with hydration, [...] Read more.
The utilisation of carbonation treatments to produce building materials is emerging as a valuable strategy to reduce CO2 emissions in the construction sector. It is of great importance to regulate the degree of carbonation when the mineralisation process is combined with hydration, as a high CO2 uptake may impede the development of adequate strength. A significant number of studies focus on attaining the maximum carbonation degree, with minimal attention paid to the examination of the evolution of CO2 uptake over the initial stages of the process. In this context, the present study aims to investigate the evolution of CO2 uptake over time during carbonation. Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is employed as material, with aqueous carbonation selected as the mineralisation process. This investigation encompasses a range of carbonation durations, spanning from 5 to 40 min. The analysis of the evolution of the mineral composition with time demonstrated that the rate of the carbonation reaction accelerates in the initial minutes, resulting in the conversion of all the portlandite produced during the hydration process in the initial 10 min. Quantitative analysis of the carbonation degree indicated that the CO2 uptake at 40 min is equal to 19.1%, which is estimated to be approximately 70% of the maximum achievable value. By contributing to the understanding of the early carbonation mechanisms in aqueous conditions of OPC, this study provides valuable support for further investigation focused on the use of cement mineralisation processes to produce building materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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21 pages, 7623 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Adding Banana Fibers on the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Mortar for Paving Block Applications
by Ginan Al-Massri, Hassan Ghanem, Jamal Khatib, Samer El-Zahab and Adel Elkordi
Ceramics 2024, 7(4), 1533-1553; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7040099 - 23 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 907
Abstract
Paving blocks might encounter diverse environmental conditions during their lifespan. The durability of paving blocks is determined by their capacity to endure various exposure conditions. Synthetic fibers have been used in mortar and concrete to improve their properties. This research investigates the influence [...] Read more.
Paving blocks might encounter diverse environmental conditions during their lifespan. The durability of paving blocks is determined by their capacity to endure various exposure conditions. Synthetic fibers have been used in mortar and concrete to improve their properties. This research investigates the influence of including banana fiber (BF) on the physical and mechanical characteristics of mortar. Five different mortar mixes were developed, with varying amounts of BF ranging from 0 to 2% by volume. Testing included ultrasonic pulse velocity, compressive strength, flexural strength, total water absorption, and sorptivity. Specimens were cured for up to 90 days. The results indicate that using 0.5% BF resulted in an improvement in compressive and flexural strength compared to the control mix. There was an increase in total water absorption and the water absorption coefficient in the presence of fibers. There appeared to be good correlations between the compressive strength and the other properties examined. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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12 pages, 3209 KiB  
Article
Mullite–Silicate Proppants Based on High-Iron Bauxite and Waste from Metallurgical Industry in Kazakhstan
by Tolebi Dzhienalyev, Alla Biryukova, Bagdaulet Kenzhaliyev, Alma Uskenbaeva and Galiya Ruzakhunova
Ceramics 2024, 7(4), 1488-1499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7040096 - 14 Oct 2024
Viewed by 610
Abstract
The suitability of microsilica as a raw material for the production of ceramic mullite–silicate proppants was assessed. The chemical and mineralogical compositions of the initial materials were studied. The mineral composition of bauxite is mainly represented by gibbsite Al(OH)3 and, to a [...] Read more.
The suitability of microsilica as a raw material for the production of ceramic mullite–silicate proppants was assessed. The chemical and mineralogical compositions of the initial materials were studied. The mineral composition of bauxite is mainly represented by gibbsite Al(OH)3 and, to a lesser extent, kaolinite Al4[Si4O10](OH)8, with impurities of hematite and quartz. It is established that, in order to obtain mullite–silicate proppants, compositions containing 10–20% microsilica are optimal. The sintering of these compositions occurs at 1350–1380 °C. A lightweight ceramic proppant was obtained with a bulk density of 1.21–1.41 g/cm3, breaking ratio at 51.7 MPa of 19.1–20.3%, and sphericity and roundness of 0.7–0.9, and the optimal roasting temperature was determined as 1370–1380 °C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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19 pages, 8953 KiB  
Article
Synthesis of Magnesia–Hercynite-Based Refractories from Mill Scale and Secondary Aluminum Dross: Implication for Recycling Metallurgical Wastes
by Praphaphan Wongsawan, Nantiya Boonlom, Muenfahn Vantar and Somyote Kongkarat
Ceramics 2024, 7(4), 1440-1458; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7040093 - 5 Oct 2024
Viewed by 684
Abstract
This study investigates the synthesis of magnesia–hercynite-based refractories using blends of magnesia powder, aluminum dross (AD), mill scale (MS), and graphite, focusing on the effects of carbon concentration and heating temperature. The results demonstrate successful synthesis at 1550 °C and 1650 °C, with [...] Read more.
This study investigates the synthesis of magnesia–hercynite-based refractories using blends of magnesia powder, aluminum dross (AD), mill scale (MS), and graphite, focusing on the effects of carbon concentration and heating temperature. The results demonstrate successful synthesis at 1550 °C and 1650 °C, with high magnesia content (C80 and D80) leading to the formation of distinct phases, including MgO, FeAl2O4, MgFeAlO4, CaMg(SiO4), and Ca3Mg(SiO4)2, which influence the ceramic’s microstructure and mechanical properties. Increased magnesia content reduces porosity and enhances crushing strength, while heating to 1650 °C significantly improves densification and nearly doubles cold crushing strength, from 43.77–58.97 MPa at 1550 °C to 76.79–95.67 MPa at 1650 °C. These findings suggest that the synthesized refractories exhibit properties comparable to commercial magnesia–hercynite bricks, with potential for the further development for industrial rotary kiln applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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14 pages, 2407 KiB  
Article
Anti-Bacterial and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of a Ceramic Bone Filler Containing Polyphenols from Grape Pomace
by Elisa Torre, Marco Morra, Clara Cassinelli and Giorgio Iviglia
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 975-988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030063 - 18 Jul 2024
Viewed by 932
Abstract
Bone loss is a major burden for society and impacts people’s health all over the world. In a changing world looking toward a more conscious use of raw materials, efforts are being made to increasingly consider new promising biomaterials that account for, on [...] Read more.
Bone loss is a major burden for society and impacts people’s health all over the world. In a changing world looking toward a more conscious use of raw materials, efforts are being made to increasingly consider new promising biomaterials that account for, on one side, the ability to provide specific functional biological activities and, on the other, the feature of being well tolerated. In this regard, the use of phenolic compounds in the field of bone-related bioengineering shows a rising interest in the development of medical solutions aimed at taking advantage of the multiple beneficial properties of these plant molecules. In this work, the anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory power of a biphasic calcium phosphate synthetic bone filler coated with a mixture of phenolic compounds was investigated by evaluating the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) value against Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis and the expression of genes involved in inflammation and autophagy by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) on J774a.1 murine macrophage cells. Results show a MIC of 0.8 μg/mL, a neat anti-inflammatory effect, and induction of autophagy key genes compared to a ceramic bone filler. In conclusion, functionalization with a polyphenol-rich extract confers to a ceramic bone filler anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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Review

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16 pages, 4437 KiB  
Review
Synthesis of Bulk-Nucleated Glass–Ceramics and Porous Glass–Ceramic Composites through Utilization of Fly Ashes
by Hugo R. Fernandes, Oguzhan Gunduz and Dilshat U. Tulyaganov
Ceramics 2024, 7(3), 1014-1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics7030066 - 30 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1750
Abstract
Coal combustion in power plants for electric power generation produces millions of tons of residues that are generally disposed of in landfills or ponds occupying vast land, resulting in serious environmental pollution. Fly ash (FA) is one of the main solid wastes generated [...] Read more.
Coal combustion in power plants for electric power generation produces millions of tons of residues that are generally disposed of in landfills or ponds occupying vast land, resulting in serious environmental pollution. Fly ash (FA) is one of the main solid wastes generated in coal-based thermal power plants, representing the largest fraction of coal combustion residues (65–95%). Unfortunately, the enormous amount of FA residue is utilized only partly, mainly in the cement industry and building materials field. An alternative approach to using FA is its incorporation into ceramic, glass and glass–ceramic production, aligning with circular economy principles and reducing the environmental footprint of both the energy and ceramic sectors. In this review article, the topics of the composition, properties, classification, and utilization of fly ashes from thermal power plants are discussed. The main objective of this work is a critical analysis of the experimental trials directed to the involvement of FA as a raw material in the fabrication of glass–ceramics and porous ceramic composites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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