CHARACTERIZATION OF GAMMA-IRRADIATED CALCIUM SILICATES FROM GLASS WASTE

Abstract

With the rising concern over industrial glass waste, there is a growing need to develop sustainable strategies for material reuse. This study explores the potential of recycled calcium silicate (CaSiO₃) nano glass slides as eco-friendly and radiation-tolerant materials. The research focused on synthesizing ultrafine CaSiO₃ nanomaterials from used glass slides and evaluating their structural and morphological responses to gamma irradiation from a Cobalt-60 (Co-60) source. To assess these characteristics, three main analytical techniques were employed: X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) to determine elemental composition, X-ray Diffraction (XRD) to examine crystallographic structure, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (FESEM-EDX) to study surface morphology and elemental distribution. XRF analysis confirmed calcium and silicon as the primary elements in the recycled samples, along with minor impurities likely introduced during processing. XRD results showed that as radiation doses increased (from 20 to 70 kGy), diffraction peaks became broader and less intense, indicating progressive structural disorder, though the fundamental crystal phase remained intact. FESEM-EDX imaging further revealed notable changes in the surface structure, including increased particle agglomeration and grain growth corresponding to higher radiation exposure. Overall, the study demonstrates that recycled CaSiO₃ nano glass retains its chemical and structural integrity even after significant gamma irradiation. These results highlight the material’s promise for use in radiation-exposed environments, offering a meaningful step forward in transforming glass waste into valuable, sustainable nanomaterials suitable for environmental and industrial applications.