Recycling Potential of Marble Industry Effluent

Abstract

This study was conducted in Haider marble factory which was taken as case study for all marble processing units in Rashakai Industrial Estate. The main goal of study was to work on recycling potential of marble industry effluent and recommend recycling solution with cost analysis for utilization of marble waste products i.e Marble Slurry and Marble Wastewater. Analysis of waste marble slurry was done to identify its utilization in the construction industry in terms of concrete blocks. Different percentages (12%, 25%, 40%, 50%) of marble slurry were used as a replacement of sand content in production of concrete. Moreover, compressive strength test of marble concrete blocks was carried out after its necessary curing. Cost analysis of marble concrete blocks shows that depending upon compressive strength and percentage of marble content, an amount of Rs 15000/-, Rs 30000/-, Rs 50000/-and Rs 65000/-can be saved per month for 12%, 25%, 40%, 50% replacement of marble slurry respectively. At present, marble industry uses ground water as a coolant for marble processing. Marble processing unit produces wastewater with a flow rate of 39.6 cum/hr. This wastewater fallsto Kabul River (through Kalpani Nullah) without any prior necessary filtration/recycling. This study also focuses on recycling aspect of marble wastewater with an aim of using recycled water as cooling water for marble processing. In this regard, it was proposedto design a re-sedimentation tankto refill OHWT and economize marble processing by reduction in the electricity consumption. Therefore, in recycling prospective of marble industry effluent, this study will be proved to be a reference and foundation stone.