Human Impact on Earth
Human activities have drastically changed the Earth's landscape, leading scientists to declare the start of the Anthropocene era.
Changes include deposits of industrial waste and construction debris, which alter natural environments.
These materials affect soil and water acidity, soil composition, and mineral distribution.
Artificial Ground and Sedimentary Material
In 2015, artificial ground contributed over 316 million tonnes of sedimentary material to oceans, far exceeding natural sediment supply.
New sedimentary rocks, like those formed from coastal slag deposits, are being studied as unique formations resulting from human waste.
Slag, a by-product of steelmaking, contributes significantly to artificial ground and can contain toxic metals that pollute the environment.
Formation of Slag Rock
The lithification process turns industrial waste, including slag, into sedimentary rocks.
As these rocks weather, they release sediments that can contaminate the environment.
Slag can neutralize acidity and capture greenhouse gases, presenting opportunities for carbon sequestration.
Understanding the lithification of slag is essential for maximizing its potential to reduce carbon footprints in the steel industry.
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