Conveners:
Paola Stabile (Università di Camerino)
Francesco Radica (Università G. D'Annunzio di Chieti-Pescara)
Andrea Bisciotti (Università degli studi di Ferrara)
Isabella Bianco (Politecnico di Torino)
Mineralogy, petrology, crystal chemistry, and process design and evaluation provide key tools for the identification, characterization, and sustainable management of natural and secondary resources, addressing the growing global demand for raw materials and energy within a circular economy framework. This session focuses on waste-derived geomaterials arising from waste management and resource recovery processes, including construction and demolition waste, incineration residues, industrial by-products, mining and metallurgical tailings, with particular attention to their recovery, reuse and valorisation. Contributions are encouraged that apply mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical approaches to characterize phase assemblages, textures, and material evolution with particular emphasis on material properties, environmental behaviour, and long-term stability. Studies integrating Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), eco-design strategies, and sustainability metrics to evaluate environmental impacts and resource efficiency are also welcome. Studies employing state-of-the-art analytical techniques (e.g. XRPD, electron microscopy, microprobe, spectroscopic and in situ methods), experimental petrology, and thermodynamic modelling are encouraged, as are data-driven approaches supported by artificial intelligence and machine learning. By linking fundamental Earth Science concepts with applied research, this session aims to promote recycling and valorisation strategies for waste-derived geomaterials, reduce the exploitation of primary natural resources, and explore their reuse in diverse applications, in line with circular economy principles.