The effect of ashes on the properties of cement mortar and typical concrete fillers

Abstract

The production of heat and electricity from shale and biomass is leading to a significant increase in the amount of the combustion residues i.e. ashes. The utilization of ashes as the pozzolanic additive in the production of Portland cement mortar and concrete for the construction of lightweight structures is the most popular way. The interaction of ashes with other typical concrete fillers also can affect the final relative short-term and long-term properties of fresh and hardened concrete when designing the concrete mixture. The influence of wood and shale ashes on the properties of cement mortar and typical concrete fillers (sand, limestone, dolomite) – fresh mortar, hydration process, and hardened mortar were researched and assessed for their applicability in the production of concrete. The best results of mechanical strength, frost resistance and water absorption were measured in case of shale ashes containing samples in combination with cement and selected concrete additive – sand. Shale ashes can be recommended for application as the active additive. Since wood ash was exhibiting lower activity, it can also be applied as a filler to produce building materials.