Management of Solid Waste from Abrasive Blasting

Abstract

The treatment of structural surfaces with high-pressure blasting using an abrasive medium results in the production of a solid waste. This solid waste contains the original abrasive material and any material that was present on the structural surface. Abrasive blasting is often used to remove paints and primers, and these materials frequently contain chemicals that may present some risk to human health and the environment. It is therefore important to manage abrasive blasting waste in compliance with all applicable regulations, and in a manner to safeguard human health and the environment. A research project was conducted to examine current management practices and regulatory issues regarding abrasive blasting waste management. Little information regarding chemical characteristics was found in the literature. A review of Florida regulatory files revealed that the large majority of abrasive blasting waste was nonhazardous, but still contained levels of heavy metals that warrant management beyond leaving the material on site. A number of recycling options are available for this waste material; the most promising is as a raw ingredient in the production of portland cement. Surveys of the 50 states and Florida counties for current management policies of waste abrasive blasting media were conducted. Also, an integrated approach to management of abrasive blasting solid waste was outlined.