Fines isolated from waste concrete as a new material for the treatment of phosphorus wastewater

Waste concrete is a key component of construction and demolition (C&D) waste produced in billions of tons. Exploring new technology for recycling waste concrete has become a global concern. Meanwhile, phosphorus (P) removal from wastewater consumes lots of natural minerals, leading to a heavy burden on the environment. In this study, the cement paste powder (HCPP) was used to remove phosphorus from wastewater. The results indicate that both HCPP and thermally modified HCPP (MHCPP) are effective phosphorus removal materials, with a maximum P-binding capacity of 3.9-mg P/g HCPP and 31.2-mg P/g MHCPP, respectively. The phosphorus removal mechanism of HCPP and MHCPP was also proposed: (1) Ca2+ and OH− can release from the surface of the HCPP or MHCPP to wastewater, forming a high-alkaline and Ca-rich solution; (2) hydrolysis of phosphorus species in the high-alkaline solution environment creates HPO42− species; (3) the HPO42− combines with Ca2+ and H2O, resulting in the formation of brushite; (4) the brushite precipitated from wastewater and adhered on the surface of the HCPP or the MHCPP particles. The study provides a new and low-cost material for treatment of phosphorus wastewater. Further, the study also offers a new approach for reusing of waste concrete fines.