Effect of latex modification of portland cement matrices on properties of heavy metal immobilized products

Solidification and stabilization are considered to be a successful method for the treatment of hazardous metal sludges because the properties of the end product and cheap methods of disposal. Although solidification often limits the undue leaching of metals, the highly porous nature of the cement matrices are susceptible to attack by various solutes after placement in landfills, thus reducing their strength and durability. Improved methods of treatment for the metal sludges are required. Modification of the physical properties, especially porosity, of the cement matrices can improve the properties of the final product. The objective of this research was to study the effect of polymer modification of the cement matrices on the strength and leachability of the solidified and stabilized product. The results of this preliminary study showed a 10-fold reduction in the leachability of the metals, although no noticable difference in strength Values was noted. (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.