Determination of the trace elements, radionuclides and REEs in the Brazilian stone waste and evaluation of sustainable use

Stone waste generated in the processing of marble and granite may present potential for recycling. The objective this study was to determine the concentrations of natural radionuclides, trace elements, Sm and Dy in stone waste. To this end, neutron activation analysis (NAA) was performed. Concentrations of Ca, Mg, S, P and K indicate that this waste can be a promising alternative as an agricultural soil conditioner. Concentrations of Dy and Sm above the values found in the earth’s crust allow a glimpse of the use of stone waste for recycling these. Feasibility of use in agriculture and REE recycling exists.