Physico-chemical Characterization of the Phosphate Sludge of the Metlaoui Plant

Tunisia is a very important producer of phosphate, which is mainly used in the chemical industries. However, the extraction and processing of phosphate generates a significant amount of waste. Their accumulation can lead to adverse effects on human health, biodiversity, and aquatic ecosystems. The Gafsa Phosphate Company (CPG) is a Tunisian company specializing in the exploitation and production of phosphate. It operates mainly in the mining region of Gafsa-Metlaoui. Our work is located in the mining region of Metlaoui which is located in the southwest of Tunisia, Governate of Gafsa. The discharge of Metlaoui phosphate waste after sludge treatment is a major environmental problem. To limit this industrial pollution, it is essential to find valuable materials in this waste, which forms a complex mixture. The objective of this work is to perform physicochemical research on ore waste, sludge from Metlaoui phosphate laundries, as well as looking for main materials used in the manufacture of cement and plasters.