Elemental characterization of waste-derived Oxide Precursors for Zinc–Calcium Aluminosilicate glass production

Abstract

The chemical composition of waste-derived precursors is an important consideration when assessing their suitability as alternative raw materials for glass production. In this study, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy was used to characterize four waste-derived precursors selected for the production of zinc–calcium aluminosilicate (ZCAS) glass, zinc oxide recovered from used batteries, waste soda lime silica (SLS) window glass, an eggshell derived calcium oxide, and an aluminium oxide extracted from discarded aluminium cans. The analyses was performed using a Xenemetrix Genius IF energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer equipped with a silicon drift detector. The results showed that the used zinc battery contained 79.20 wt.% ZnO as the major secondary oxide. The waste SLS window glass contained 72.80 wt.% SiO. The eggshell-derived precursor contained 60.15 wt.% CaO, while the aluminium-can-derived precursor contained 70.20 wt.% Al₂O₃. Minor and trace constituents were detected in all precursors, reflecting the heterogeneous nature of the original waste materials. The results confirm that the four waste streams selected provide ZnO, SiO₂, CaO, and Al₂O₃ in good concentrations, demonstrating their potential as alternative raw materials for ZCAS glass and glass- ceramics production.