Method support for circular use of foundry sand

Important results from the project

The purpose of the project was to develop support for foundries and other businesses that intend to use foundry sand in their processes or products. With greater knowledge of the foundry sand´s properties and possible areas of use, the sand can be used several times. This leads to an increasing circularity and to a reduction in mining of new sand. The goal was to compile and spread knowledge about residual sand and its potential, together with a structured nomenclature for foundry sand and an analysis of how the rest of the world views the residual sand of foundries.

Expected long term effects

The result is primarily a compilation of different possibilities for foundries to find disposal for their used sand, without it being deposited. The aim is to provide a palette of different conceivable uses for foundry sand - even if it is currently often difficult to get deals in practice. The results are expected to give foundries knowledge about how their residual sand can be used for other applications and lead to reduced landfill of the sands. One effect for the research institute is the discussions with other countries, which can lead to new international research collaborations.

Approach and implementation

The participating companies have initially presented their residual sands, how they arise and where they go. The companies have left the sands to be evaluated by an actor in the construction industry. Part of the project has been based on compiling references from successful examples, studies carried out as well as standards and methods for testing the suitability of sand for technical purposes, The project participated in an international discussion group on foundries´ sand management. In order to get a good spread of results, they will be presented in the foundry industry´s handbook.