High-Volume Fly Ash Concrete

Status

Sequential Number

Identification Number

Matching Research Agency

 Ameren

Principal Investigator

Student Involvement

One graduate student

Project Objective

The objective of the proposed study is to design, test, and evaluate high-volume fly ash concrete mixtures. Specifically, to determine the appropriate types and levels of potential additives necessary to increase the percentage of fly ash in various concrete mixes, and evaluate leachability of HVFA concrete compared to existing FA concrete and non-FA concrete using TCLP, ASTM 3987, and the new LEAF methods.

Project Abstract

The objective of the proposed study is to design, test, and evaluate high-volume fly ash concrete mixtures.  Traditional specifications limit the amount of fly ash to 40% or less cement replacement.  This program attempts to increase the ash content to 75% while maintaining strength and durability characteristics.  Various mixtures and chemical additives will be tested.

The funding would allow calorimetry studies of potential admixtures and additives necessary to increase the percentage of fly ash in the various concrete mixes.  The calorimetry would allow a more diverse and extensive set of variables to be studied, and would assist the researchers in developing mixes specific to each type of fly ash available.  The funding would also allow testing for leachability of the HVFA concrete to existing FA concrete and non-FA concrete using TCLP, ASTM 3987, and the new LEAF methods, and to potentially evaluate the various products for radioactivity.

Anticipated Benefits

Reduction in concrete’s carbon footprint and removal of material from the solid waste stream (currently, about 40 percent of fly ash is reclaimed for beneficial reuse and 60 percent is disposed of in landfills) .

Milestones

Project Deliverables

Test data, guidelines, and specifications for the use of high-volume fly ash concrete.

Technology Transfer Activities

The technology transfer activities will include a final research report and dissemination of the findings through a national conference via technical presentation(s) and publication(s).

Transportation Research Board Keywords

Concrete, Durability, Fly Ash, Supplementary Cementitious Materials, Sustainable Development, Transportation Infrastructure