Flyash can be used in almost all types of concrete from mortar and plaster to high strength, high resistance concrete. | |
Flyash is a product of the combustion of pulverised coal in thermal power stations. Because of the unique nature of its creation it has unique properties to offer when used in concrete. | |
Each particle of Flyash is a glassy sphere of minute size (less than 50µ) of almost pure silica. Because of this it can benefit both fresh and hardened concrete. | |
We offer extensive technical assistance to professionals interested in developing concrete mix designs that maximize performance. | |
Government policy makers encourage greater use of flyash through regulations and incentives and provide measure to boost the use of it. |
Better Performance without Higher Cost | |
Fly ash – the most commonly used coal combustion product – is a remarkable material that cost-effectively improves the performance of products it is added to. | |
For instance, in making concrete, cement is mixed with water to create the “glue” that holds strong aggregates together. Fly ash works in tandem with cement in the production of concrete products. Concrete containing fly ash is easier to work with because the tiny, glassy beads create a lubricating effect that causes concrete to flow and pump better, to fill forms more completely, and to do it all using up to 10 percent less water. Because the tiny fly ash particles fill microscopic spaces in the concrete, and because less water is required, concrete using fly ash is denser and more durable. And fly ash reacts chemically with lime that is given off by cement hydration, creating more of the glue that holds concrete together. That makes concrete containing fly ash stronger over time than concrete made only with cement. | |
Fly ash is also a cost-effective resource. When fly ash is added to concrete, the amount of cement that is necessary can be reduced. |
Conserving Energy, Reducing Emissions, and more… Because fly ash use displaces cement use, it also reduces the need for cement production – a major energy user and source of “greenhouse gas” emissions. For every ton of cement manufactured, about 6.5 million BTUs of energy are consumed. For every ton of cement manufactured, about one ton of carbon dioxide is sreleased.Replacing that ton of cement with fly ash would save enough electricity and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Concrete itself is an environmentally sound building material. Roads and structures built from concrete last longer and require less maintenance than other materials. When used in freeways, concrete can result in less vehicle fuel consumption. Because concrete reflects light, less energy is needed to illuminate the roadway. Concrete is recyclable, with 45 to 80 percent of crushed concrete usable as aggregate in new construction. Additionally, recent studies conducted by the Environmental Council of Concrete Organizations have determined certain metropolitan areas experience higher overall temperatures than surrounding less-developed areas. Using lighter colored concrete products instead of asphalt pavement can help reduce excessive temperature, further conserving energy. |
What Can We Do? Even though millions of tons of coal combustion products are used every year, millions more are still going to waste. Many people can have a hand in encouraging greater utilization of this important resource. Architects and engineers designing projects for public works and private developments can specify that building materials incorporate the use of fly ash. By requiring fly ash in concrete and other products, architects, engineers and regulators express a commitment to promote sustainable growth and exercise responsible building practices. Using fly ash is an exceptional way to “Build Green,” without compromising cost or quality in concrete production. |