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The conversion of basalt rocks into glass-ceramics is considered a very promising way toward the evolution of sustainable, high-performing materials. Since basalt is abundantly available as a natural resource, and contains very high amounts of oxides such as SiO₂, Al₂O₃, Fe₂O₃, and CaO, it is ideal for producing glass-ceramic materials. Careful regulation of melting, cooling, and crystallization can give rise to a microstructure with superior mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical durability. Basalt-derived glass-ceramics differ from conventional ceramics in terms of lower production costs and being environmentally friendly. They are also highly resistant to wear and corrosion, making them suitable for use in extreme service environments such as aerospace, nuclear energy, and construction. The found potential in production from basaltic materials (including maintenance of various industrial processes and waste management), further enhances the likely marketability of these products on the basis of environmental and resource efficiency.

My research involves the synthesis of basalt-based glass-ceramics, where mine tailings and a steel wire mesh will be incorporated as composites to improve mechanical properties. It is expected that these additions will, to a significant degree, enhance strength, toughness, and durability, making these materials even more relevant to demanding structural applications. This work will optimize not only performance but also sustainable waste management approaches toward these industrial by-products. The synthesis process involves melting the raw basalt and mine tailings at high temperatures, followed by controlled cooling to obtain an amorphous glass. The glass material is then heat-treated (in a process called ceramization), allowing controlled crystallization that results in selected microstructure development for a glass-ceramic. The incorporation of a steel wire mesh into the composite further reinforces the material, thereby aiding in the enhancement of the performance characteristics of the material. The next steps in my research involve performing a series of mechanical tests to evaluate properties such as hardness, fracture toughness, and impact resistance. The ultimate goal is to develop a highly functionalized glass-ceramic that can find applications in various fields, with a primary focus on radiation shielding and ballistic protection. By optimizing the material’s composition and processing conditions, this research aims to contribute to the development of next-generation protective materials for extreme environments.

Aleksa Luković

Department of Materials, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of thе Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia

E-mail: aleksa.lukovic@vinca.rs