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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 16702

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

E-Mail Website
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

E-Mail Website
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 (14 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 7577 KiB  
Article
Eco-Fired Bricks from Phosphate Mine Waste Rocks: The Effects of Marble Waste Powder on the Physical and Microstructural Properties
by Ayoub Bayoussef, Samira Moukannaa, Mohamed Loutou, Yassine Taha, Mostafa Benzaazoua and Rachid Hakkou
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020048 - 1 May 2025
Viewed by 216
Abstract
Nowadays, the global brick industry utilizes billions of cubic meters of clay soil annually, resulting in the massive consumption of non-renewable resources. This study explores the viability of utilizing red marl from phosphate mining waste rocks for fired brick production. Ecofriendly fired bricks [...] Read more.
Nowadays, the global brick industry utilizes billions of cubic meters of clay soil annually, resulting in the massive consumption of non-renewable resources. This study explores the viability of utilizing red marl from phosphate mining waste rocks for fired brick production. Ecofriendly fired bricks produced from 100% side streams (red marly clays (RM) and marble waste powder (MWP)) were prepared, pressed, dried at 105 °C, and then fired at 1100 °C for 1 h. The effects of marble waste powder addition (up to 30 wt%) on the physical, mechanical, mineralogical, and microstructural properties of the fired bricks were explored. The main results show that fired bricks with high compressive strength of a maximum of 39 MPa could be prepared with a mixture of red marl and 10 wt% of marble waste powder. The thermal conductivity was decreased by marble waste addition (from 0 to 30%) and was reduced from 0.93 W/m.k to 0.53 W/m.k; however, the compressive strength was also decreased to reach a minimum of 17 MPa. The firing shrinkage and density were also reduced with 30% marble waste by 41% and 18%, respectively. Therefore, red marly clays and marble waste could be promising raw materials for eco-fired brick production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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12 pages, 1871 KiB  
Article
Physical and Mechanical Properties of Fired Bricks from Amazon Bauxite Tailings with Granite Powder
by Igor A. R. Barreto and Marcondes L. da Costa
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020037 - 13 Apr 2025
Viewed by 310
Abstract
In the Amazon region, bauxite processing generates significant quantities of clay mineral-rich tailings, which pose a major challenge for bauxite mining operations. This study explores the use of bauxite tailings to produce fired bricks and evaluates their properties. Using a Box–Behnken experimental design, [...] Read more.
In the Amazon region, bauxite processing generates significant quantities of clay mineral-rich tailings, which pose a major challenge for bauxite mining operations. This study explores the use of bauxite tailings to produce fired bricks and evaluates their properties. Using a Box–Behnken experimental design, nine specimens were prepared with varying granite content (0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%) and fired at three different temperatures: 800 °C, 900 °C, and 1000 °C. The bauxite tailings contain gibbsite, kaolinite, Al-goethite, and hematite, while the granite powder comprises quartz, potassium feldspar, sodium plagioclase, muscovite, and occasionally kaolinite. Linear shrinkage values remained within recommended limits, below 8%. Apparent porosity (AP) results ranged from 60.2% to 72%, with maximum water absorption reaching 23.6%. The compressive strength of bricks without granite addition was 11.9 MPa at 900 °C, with the highest value recorded at 14.9 MPa at 800 °C when granite was added. These findings indicate that bauxite tailings, when supplemented with pulverized granite, exhibit promising potential for fired brick production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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22 pages, 4313 KiB  
Article
Enhancing the Thermal Insulation Properties of Clay Materials Using Coffee Grounds and Expanded Perlite Waste: A Sustainable Approach to Masonry Applications
by Ioannis Makrygiannis, Konstantinos Karalis and Ploutarchos Tzampoglou
Ceramics 2025, 8(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8020030 - 24 Mar 2025
Viewed by 407
Abstract
The development of energy-efficient and sustainable construction materials is essential for reducing environmental impact and enhancing building performance. This study investigates the incorporation of coffee grounds and expanded perlite waste—two underutilized industrial byproducts—into clay-based ceramics to improve thermal insulation while maintaining mechanical integrity. [...] Read more.
The development of energy-efficient and sustainable construction materials is essential for reducing environmental impact and enhancing building performance. This study investigates the incorporation of coffee grounds and expanded perlite waste—two underutilized industrial byproducts—into clay-based ceramics to improve thermal insulation while maintaining mechanical integrity. Unlike previous studies that explore these additives separately or in impractically high dosages, this research focuses on their combined effect at low, industrially viable ratios to ensure large-scale feasibility. Four clay mixtures were analyzed: a reference clay (TZ), clay with coffee grounds (TZCF), clay with expanded perlite waste (TZPW), and clay with both additives (TZCFPW). Laboratory testing and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed to assess the physical, mechanical, and thermal properties of these formulations. The results indicated that coffee grounds increased plasticity, while expanded perlite waste reduced it, requiring adjustments in processing parameters. Both additives contributed to lower shrinkage and drying sensitivity, improving dimensional stability during production. Although mechanical strength declined due to increased porosity—most notably in the TZPW mixture—the fired bending strength remained within acceptable limits for masonry applications. The most significant finding was the substantial improvement in thermal performance, with all the modified formulations exhibiting reduced thermal conductivity and enhanced insulation. The best performance was observed in the TZPW mixture, which demonstrated the lowest thermal conductivity, highest thermal resistance, and optimal U-values in masonry wall testing, confirming its potential for energy-efficient construction. CFD simulations further validated these enhancements, providing detailed insights into heat transfer mechanisms. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of repurposing industrial waste materials to create scalable, eco-friendly building products. Future research should refine formulation ratios to optimize the balance between strength and insulation, ensuring widespread adoption in sustainable construction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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22 pages, 13726 KiB  
Article
Nanoflower-Shaped ZnO Nanoparticles Reduced with Blueberry Waste and Their Evaluation of Malachite Green Dye Degradation
by Iván Balderas-León, Jorge Manuel Silva-Jara, Miguel Ángel López-Álvarez, Pedro Ortega-Gudiño, Arturo Mendoza-Galván, Omar Fabela-Sánchez, Rocío Ivette López-Roa and María Esther Macías-Rodríguez
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010019 - 21 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1122
Abstract
This work focuses on the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to be used as a photocatalyst, preparing a blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) extract as a reducing agent, zinc chloride as a precursor, and NaOH as precipitating agent (1, 7 [...] Read more.
This work focuses on the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to be used as a photocatalyst, preparing a blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) extract as a reducing agent, zinc chloride as a precursor, and NaOH as precipitating agent (1, 7 and 14 M). Characterization techniques included X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy. The XRD analysis confirmed the hexagonal wurtzite crystalline structure of ZnO NPs, while the SEM and TEM revealed a flower-like morphology. Moreover, the ZnO NPs exhibited a band gap energy in the range of 3.17 to 3.27 eV, depending on the concentration of NaOH. Regarding the photocatalytic activity, the synthesized ZnO NPs showed a photocatalytic efficiency greater than 90%, degrading malachite green (MG) dye in 60 min under sunlight. The proposed photocatalytic mechanism includes reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation (hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and superoxide radicals (O2−)). The XRD and Raman analysis also revealed that the ZnO NPs maintained structural integrity after repeated photocatalytic cycles, emphasizing their stability and suitability for practical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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22 pages, 4874 KiB  
Article
Tracking Secondary Raw Material Operational Framework—DataOps Case Study
by Gabriel Pestana, Marisa Almeida and Nelson Martins
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010012 - 28 Jan 2025
Viewed by 952
Abstract
The ceramic and glass industries, integral to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), face significant challenges in achieving decarbonization despite advancements in energy efficiency. The circular economy offers a promising pathway, emphasizing the reuse and recycling of waste materials into secondary raw [...] Read more.
The ceramic and glass industries, integral to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), face significant challenges in achieving decarbonization despite advancements in energy efficiency. The circular economy offers a promising pathway, emphasizing the reuse and recycling of waste materials into secondary raw materials (SRMs) to reduce resource consumption and emissions. This study investigates a standardized waste supply chain framework, developed collaboratively with stakeholders, tailored for the ceramic sector. The Waste Resource Platform (WRP) integrates Industry 4.0 paradigms, utilizing a modular, layered architecture and a process-centric design. The framework includes experimental tests and co-creation methodologies to refine a digital marketplace that connects stakeholders, facilitates SRM exchange, and fosters industrial symbiosis. The WRP demonstrates the potential for SRMs to replace virgin materials, reducing environmental impacts and production costs. It enhances supply chain transparency through digital traceability, promotes predictive material sourcing, and streamlines logistics via algorithmic optimization. Challenges such as regulatory gaps and quality standards are addressed through standardized processes, open data governance, and innovative algorithms. The WRP project advances circular economy goals in the ceramic sector, promoting waste reuse, industrial symbiosis, and supply chain resilience. Its standardized, open-access platform offers a scalable model for other industries, fostering sustainable practices and resource efficiency while addressing global climate targets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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35 pages, 10866 KiB  
Article
Improving the Mechanical, Corrosion Resistance, Microstructural and Environmental Performance of Recycled Aggregate Concrete Using Ceramic Waste Powder as an Alternative to Cement
by Ansam Ali Hashim, Rana Anaee and Mohammed Salah Nasr
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010011 - 26 Jan 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1205
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of replacing the cement with 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt.% of ceramic waste powder (HCCP) to improve the performance of recycled aggregate concrete (RCA) prepared using 25 wt.% wall tile ceramic coarse aggregates. The slump, initial [...] Read more.
This study investigates the effectiveness of replacing the cement with 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt.% of ceramic waste powder (HCCP) to improve the performance of recycled aggregate concrete (RCA) prepared using 25 wt.% wall tile ceramic coarse aggregates. The slump, initial and final setting time, compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, electrical resistivity, bulk density, porosity, total and surface water absorption, pH level, ultrasonic pulse velocity, dynamic elastic modulus, chloride ion diffusion coefficient, chloride penetration depth, microstructure analysis, and environmental assessment properties were investigated. The results showed that replacing cement with HCCP by 5 to 20 wt.% prolonged the setting time and improved all hardened properties. The highest improvements in mechanical properties were observed at 5 wt.% HCCP, with increasing rates of 26.5%, 22%, and 22.4% at 90 days for compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength, respectively. On the other hand, the optimum enhancement for the durability, microstructural, and environmental efficiency properties was recorded at a 20 wt.% HCCP replacement rate. However, the strength at this ratio tended to decrease but remained higher than that of the control RAC. For instance, the total water absorption, surface water absorption, void ratio, chloride penetration depth, and migration coefficient were reduced by 47%, 45%, 38%, 62.3%, and 55.52%, respectively, compared to the reference sample. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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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 1134
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 1068
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 3 | Viewed by 1844
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
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1028
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
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1041
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 1319
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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30 pages, 7801 KiB  
Review
Porous Glass for Thermal Insulation in Buildings with a Focus on Sustainable Materials and Technologies: Overview and Challenges
by Francesco Baino and Pardeep Kumar Gianchandani
Ceramics 2025, 8(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/ceramics8010028 - 12 Mar 2025
Viewed by 941
Abstract
In response to environmental challenges and primary resource scarcity, sustainable approaches that rely on recycling and reusing waste materials are becoming valuable and highly appealing options in modern society. This paper deals with the usage of porous glass and glass-ceramic products derived from [...] Read more.
In response to environmental challenges and primary resource scarcity, sustainable approaches that rely on recycling and reusing waste materials are becoming valuable and highly appealing options in modern society. This paper deals with the usage of porous glass and glass-ceramic products derived from waste in the field of thermal insulation in buildings. After providing an overview of the current state of the art with a focus on existing commercial products and related manufacturing methods (foaming strategies), this review discusses the emerging trends toward greener approaches, including the use of by-products or waste substances as foaming agents (e.g., eggshells or mining residues), the use of vitrified bottom or fly ashes from municipal solid waste incinerators as starting materials, the application of surface treatment to reduce post-processing temperatures, and the promise of additive manufacturing technologies in this field. The increased use and spread of sustainable practices are expected to significantly contribute to glass recycling, to minimize landfilling, and to generally reduce energy consumption as well as greenhouse emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramics in the Circular Economy for a Sustainable World)
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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 3 | Viewed by 2346
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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