Mid-infrared spectroscopic analysis of chemically bound metalcasting sands

Miguel, Roberto E. and Dungan, R.S. and Reeves III, J.B. (2014) Mid-infrared spectroscopic analysis of chemically bound metalcasting sands. Journal of Analytical and Applied Pyrolysis. 107:332-335.

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Abstract

Foundries around the world discard millions of tonnes of molding and core sand each year even though they can be beneficially used in manufactured soils and geotechnical applications. Despite their usefulness as an aggregate replacement, some environmental authorities are concerned over potential negative impacts associated with residual organic binders in waste foundry sands (WFSs). In this study, chemically bound molding and core sands were obtained from aluminum, bronze and iron foundries that used alkyd urethane, phenolic urethane, Novolac, and natural organic binders. The aim was to use mid-infrared (MIR) spectrometry to assess changes within the molding and core sands during the casting process, with a specific focus on proximity to the casting interface and casting temperature. In addition, the MIR spectra were compared to total carbon concentrations in the sands. Bands associated with C-H stretching were detected in most WFSs. The MIR spectra and total carbon data demonstrated that casting temperature and proximity of the sand to the molten metal contributed to various levels of thermal degradation of the organic binders. Our results also provided preliminary evidence that MIR spectroscopy could be used to identify WFSs with less residual binder.

Item Type:	Article
NWISRL Publication Number:	1493
Subjects:	Soil > Amendments > Foundry sand
Depositing User:	Users 6 not found.
Date Deposited:	19 Jun 2014 16:36
Last Modified:	19 Jun 2014 16:36
Item ID:	1536
URI:	https://eprints.nwisrl.ars.usda.gov/id/eprint/1536