Characterization of the Residual Sludge Generated by the Servicio Aguas de Comayagua (SAC) Water Treatment Plant for Productive Use Proposal (#1287)

Authors

Aguero Hernández, Anna Kristina

Jimenez Velasquez, Ilene Alejandra

Abstract

The proposal for the productive use of residual sludge was carried out in collaboration with Servicios Aguas de Comayagua (SAC). The objective was to characterize and analyze the potential for reusing residual sludge from the water treatment plant as a substitute material for fine aggregate in the production of fired clay bricks and/or as fertilizer in school gardens. This initiative aims to promote sustainability and reduce pollution in the department of Comayagua, Honduras. For the research development, a total of four residual sludge samples were obtained. Despite containing nutrients and organic matter, the analysis determined that they are not a viable option as fertilizer for school gardens due to the presence of pathogens that hinder seedling growth. However, they were found to be an excellent substitute for fine aggregate in the production of fired clay bricks, as the analyzed results indicate that one of the mixtures possesses characteristics close to the classification of ASTM C62-23 standards.