Environmental issues on the industrial processing of raw agate

Abstract

Agate geodes are treated and stained for the production of handmade artifacts and jewelry, which greatly increases their aggregate value. Unit operations involve storage, sorting, cutting, crushing, dyeing, polishing, washing, and finishing. Substantial amounts of waste materials are produced, which include agate pieces, powders (with or without oils), and wastewaters from organic and inorganic staining procedures. The aim of this work was to quantify the amounts of these waste materials, their characteristics, and possibilities for reuse or recycling in other productivity sectors in the context of the second decade of the 21st century. A review of the theme was carried out and possibilities were analyzed in the light of classic and new technologies.