10 05 Waste from thermal processes in zinc metallurgy

The processes of smelting, refining, and heat treatment of zinc and its alloys are accompanied by the generation of specific metallurgical residues classified under code 10 05 Waste from thermal processes in zinc metallurgy.

This category includes slags from primary and secondary production, dust from gas cleaning systems, as well as other fine, non-hazardous residues generated during related technological operations and equipment maintenance. Since some of these substances contain zinc oxides and associated mineral components, they require proper record-keeping and control from the accumulation stage at the facility.

Environmentally sound management of such waste requires compliance with strict industrial safety and sanitary regulations, as metallurgical dust and fine residues can contaminate workplace air and create environmental risks in the event of uncontrolled dispersion or contact with moisture.

They are strictly prohibited from being left in open production areas without protection from precipitation, discharged into municipal sewage systems, or transported to general waste landfills. Enterprises are required to arrange sealed or protected temporary storage in specially designed closed containers or enclosed storage facilities and transfer these materials to licensed operators.

The most rational approach to managing these wastes is secondary pyrometallurgical or hydrometallurgical processing, recovery of valuable components, and recycling instead of direct disposal.

Slags and dust are generally returned to the production cycle for the recovery of zinc and associated non-ferrous metals, while other fine, non-hazardous residues may undergo stabilization or be sent to specialized facilities for safe use in construction or environmentally controlled disposal.