Page 18 - Materials Chemistry, Second Edition

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Introduction
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hazardous, are generated from very sensitive resources and should thus be
handled and treated in a very sensitive manner. The chapter will discuss the
most popular technologies used in clinical waste treatment and compare
and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of each one. Technologies
discussed in this chapter include incineration, autoclave (steam steriliza-
tion), chemical disinfection, microwave disinfection, pyrolysis, gasification,
plasma systems, and irradiation. Current clinical waste management prac-
tices applied in both the developed and developing countries will be exam-
ined, and a final discussion will be given about the use of electron beam
technology in sterilizing clinical waste and how that could be applied to
achieve a cradle-to-cradle implementation.
The final chapter, Chapter 10, will discuss sustainability of industrial
solid waste management. It attempts to define an outline for transforming
the different traditional industries into more environmentally friendly ones
that apply cradle-to-cradle concepts. Some industrial sectors discussed in this
chapter have not been mentioned before in previous chapters such as the
sugarcane industry, aluminum foundry, iron and steel, marble, petroleum,
cement, and tourism.
In conclusion, this book advocates sustainable development and the
conservation of our natural resources without inflicting harm on the envi-
ronment. It discusses most types of waste generated in most industries and
within our communities, and suggests techniques for utilizing it according to
cradle-to-cradle concepts and avoiding the use of landfills, incineration, and
treatment in general. I hope the reader finds it as stimulating and enjoyable
to read as it was for me to write. Any questions, comments or suggestions –
positive or negative – for further improving this book would be highly appre-
ciated. Please feel free to contact the author at: elhaggar@aucegypt.edu