Calcium phosphate silicate ceramics for heavy metal immobilization and antibacterial activity in waste water

In the present work we have prepared a hydroxyapatite (HA)–silica porous ceramic material for the immobilization of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn). This material, shaped as Raschig rings, is obtained by extrusion starting from urban and industrial wastes. Additionally, it has been proved that when Ag or Cu is added over the rings surfaces, these ceramics also have a bactericidal activity.