Analysis of foundry sand for incorporation in asphalt mixtures

Abstract

With the need to preserve natural resources, waste recovery and recycling are fundamental. However, it is essential to evaluate and characterize the wastes for a correct management namely by incorporation in industrial processes in order to avoid negative impacts. Foundry sand is a waste that can be reused as an aggregate and incorporated in asphalt mixtures. In this work, a mix design study of one asphalt mixture was carried out to assess the maximum amount of material that could be used (5%), together with an evaluation of its water sensitivity. Additionally the leaching behavior was evaluated. Due to the fluoride concentration, it was concluded that this waste should be sent to a non-hazardous waste landfill, however it does not constitute a limitation on its incorporation in asphalt mixtures which could be an effective process for foundry sand management from both the environmental and economic points of view.