Neutralization and refining of acidic sludge by waste materials

One of the most hazardous waste materials is acidic sludge that is produced in used oil refining process. In this study acidic sludge from recycle oil factories was refined by a novel method that involves neutralization of sludge and extraction its aromatic and organic compound by a waste solvent. Chemical properties of acidic sludge and neutralized sludge so called sludge residue (SR) was studied. Results indicated sulphuric acid neutralized successfully and some volatile organic oils and most of impurities were eliminated from sludge residue. Also, physical properties of sludge investigated for both acidic sludge and sludge residue. Comparison data between physical properties showed penetration, ductility, density and flash point of acidic sludge was improved after neutralization and refining. FT-IR spectrum utilized for both acidic sludge and sludge residue. Spectrum explained their difference is on intensity of bands only and non molecular change occurred in refining process. Furthermore, physical properties of sludge residue showed fine resemblance with vacuum bottom. Consequently, by this approach not only hazardous acidic sludge and waste solvent eliminated from environment but also no harmful additional materials would produce in refining process.