Result description
The uses of industrial by-products from coal and biomass combustion as well as wastes from mine waste processing (fly ashes, decarbonization lime, aggregate and sealing materials) with the amendment of organic wastes (sewage sludge and spent mushroom compost) allowed the development of soil substitutes, addressing the land reclamation of coal mining waste heaps with intensive eroded slopes and high acidic character. The safe use of such anthropogenic materials fits well with the circular economy concept, combining an improved economic efficiency of industrial activities with environmental benefits. In this case, natural soils, as an expensive and non-renewable material for reclamation, could be replaced by a valuable substitute made from waste.
The research developed soil substitutes for land rehabilitation of coal mining-affected areas (waste heaps), outlining a novel approach to the use of wastes generated in coal mines and coal-fired power plants. The following coal combustion by-products were included: fly ashes from coal and biomass combustion, aggregate from mine waste processing, sealing material and energetic slag. Additionally, sewage sludge and spent mushroom compost were incorporated into the elaboration of soil substitutes as substrates enriching with organic matter and valuable nutrients.
- Soil health and food
- Radical Innovation Breakthrough
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Geoengineering: changing landscapes.
Addressing target audiences and expressing needs
- To raise awareness and possibly influence policy
- Other type of Investment
Coal mining companies or Regional authorities interested in restoring coal mining waste heaps with intensively eroded slopes and highly acidic character.
- EU and Member State Policy-makers
- International Organisations (ex. OECD, FAO, UN, etc.)
- Private Investors
R&D, Technology and Innovation aspects
The technology has been proven to work in its final form and under expected conditions (TRL 8). The next step is to undergo a commercial operation to achieve TRL 9.
The product can adapt to the changing needs or patterns of the customers/users and to the increased demand, trends, and needs, even in the face of competition, while remaining profitable and keeping high-quality standards.
The result can be replicable with little adaptation to the specific characteristics of the area.
Yes, because it completely focuses on adding value to stakeholders, the environment and society.
Result submitted to Horizon Results Platform by GLOWNY INSTYTUT GORNICTWA
