Synchronous stabilization of Pb, Zn, Cd, and As in lead smelting slag by industrial solid waste

In order to prevent heavy metal (HM) pollution from lead smelting slag (LSS) to the surrounding environment, this work investigated the feasibility, influencing factors, and mechanisms of using industrial solid waste such as fly ash (FA), oil sludge pyrolysis residue (PR), and steel slag (SS) as remediation amendments. The results demonstrated that the stabilization process was influenced by the material dosage, water content, and LSS particle size. Compared to single materials, the combination amendment PR2FA1 (with a mass ratio of PR to FA as 2:1) exhibited the best stabilization effect, simultaneously reducing the leaching concentrations of As, Zn, Cd, and Pb in LSS to 0.032, 0.034, 0.002, and 0.014 mg/L, respectively. The pH value of the leachate remained between 8 and 9, which met the requirements of surface water quality class IV (GB3838–2002). Through morphological analysis, microscopic characterization, and simulated solution adsorption experiments, it was determined that the stabilization process of HMs was controlled by various mechanisms, including electrostatic attraction, physical adsorption, ion exchange, and chemical precipitation. PR2FA1 had more active components, and its fine-porous structure provided more active sites, resulting in good stabilization performance for As, Zn, Cd, and Pb. Furthermore, cost analysis showed that PR2FA1, as an environmentally friendly material, could generate profits of 157.2 ¥/ton. In conclusion, the prepared PR2FA1 not only addressed the HMs pollution from lead smelting slag to the surrounding environment but also achieved the safe and resourceful disposal of hazardous waste-oil sludge. Its excellent performance in stabilizing HMs and cost-effectiveness suggested promising commercial applications. © 2023 Elsevier Ltd