Drum filter cake - a lead containing hazardous waste generated in the secondary zinc industry - has been characterised using X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, thermal studies, chemical and particle size analysis for evaluating its suitability for making a value added product. The results of characterisation have shown that the waste can be utilised as are resource material for making frit suitable for glazing of ceramic bodies. The prepared frit material was found to be substantially glassy and the leachability of lead ions, as determined using zero head extractor, was observed to be well within the permissible limit. The frit material was powdered and after mixing with clay was used for glazing application on biscuit fired unglazed ceramic tiles.
