Modification of Ordinary Concrete Using Fly Ash from Combustion of Municipal Sewage Sludge

Materials (Basel). 2020 Jan 19;13(2):487. doi: 10.3390/ma13020487.

Abstract

This article focuses on the impact of fly ash from the combustion of municipal sewage sludge (FAMSS) as a cement additive in the amounts of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% (by mass) on selected concrete properties. In the course of the experimental work, water penetration depth and compressive strength measurements were made at various periods of curing (from 2 to 365 days). In addition, the potential impact of FAMSS on the natural environment was examined by determining the leachability of heavy metals. FAMSS-modified concretes showed small values of water penetration depth (lower than 50 mm), as well as good compressive strength (reaching minimum class C30/37 after 130 days of maturing)-similar to the compressive strength obtained for conventional concrete. In addition, the partial replacement of cement with FAMSS has environmental benefits, expressed as a reduction in CO2 emissions. In addition, study has shown that compliance with environmental requirements is associated with heavy metal leaching.

Keywords: compressive strength of concrete; concrete; fly ash; heavy metals leaching; sewage sludge combustion.