Quarry Waste as Secondary Raw Material for the Production of Surface Coating Agent-Paint

Abstract

Background and Objective: Particularly, the processes of quarrying produce a lot of waste that has a lot of different mineral compositions, making it a potential secondary raw material for the formulation of surface coating products. The paradigm of a circular economy calls for a greater effort to locate suitable uses for this raw material. The goal of this investigation was to find low-cost local alternatives and adaptable raw materials for the manufacturing of water-based paint, with a focus on replacing the opacifier and filler without reducing the end product’s quality. Materials and Methods: The quarry waste (QW) was pre-treated to produce treated quarry waste (TQW) and characterized for its mineral composition, surface morphology and crystallinity. Quixcoat, an emulsion-based paint, was prepared by NIS guidelines and subjected to physiochemical analysis. Results: The mineralogy analysis of the QW revealed the presence of anthophyllite, muscovite, quartz, garnet and albite, except orthoclase. The parameters of the Quixcoat were found to be within an acceptable range when compared to the Nigeria industrial standards and specifications. When compared to paint made from titanium dioxide and aluminum silicate, the properties of the Quixcoat, such as viscosity, density and hard drying time, showed improvements. However, it has a slightly high pH and a relatively low surface drying property, which are desirable properties for tropical paints. Conclusion: Hence, QW has the potential of serving as a potential secondary raw material for paint production.