A three‑week trial at Silverstream Landfill is testing a new process that destroys asbestos fibres and turns them into a cement‑like by‑product. The trial uses Environment Decontamination Limited’s mechanochemical destruction reactor, which mills asbestos with high‑intensity metallic balls to break down its crystal structure into fine powder.

The test is the first outside a laboratory. It will measure feed rates, material hardness, and the size and type of milling balls. Samples of the resulting powder will be analysed overseas to assess its suitability as a construction material or cement replacement.

Most New Zealand councils currently bury asbestos. The only established method to neutralise it is high‑temperature melting. EDL says its mechanical process uses simpler systems, requires far less energy, and produces a usable material.

The company has worked with asbestos since 2016 and drew on experience from nuclear waste and PFAS projects. Silverstream was chosen for its infrastructure and ability to host controlled pilot trials.

Lower Hutt mayor Fauono Ken Laban described the work as innovative and said the trial could change how asbestos is managed. He said the operation is contained within the landfill’s asbestos cell, using decontamination units, negative‑pressure systems and HEPA filtration to ensure safety.

Source: 1News

23/05/26