A Review on the Utilization and Environmental Concerns of Coal Fly Ash

Abstract

Fly ash is a solid by-product from the pulverization of coal in thermal power plants. It is a cost-effective raw material that has gained so much attention from industrialists for a series of engineering purposes. It is utilized in various applications like cement and concrete, bricks, road construction and embankments, mine backfilling, mixed asphalt, soil amelioration, catalyst, production plants, geopolymers, etc. Asia and USA. are the top global fly ash producers. The high demand for its utilization adds to the economy of fly ash-producing nations. China, India, and Japan contribute to the fly ash market growth through urbanization and sustainable infrastructural activities. Fly ash is not environmentally friendly. It is currently one of the leading industrial solid wastes that has attracted so much public attention due to its associated environmental health concerns. It poses a severe social and economic burden to municipal and central authorities. COX, NOX, SOX, and matter are pollutants emitted from fossil fuel burning. Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are indirect agents of climate change. Fly ash contains heavy metals and some radioactive elements; therefore, utilizing it can lead to severe health and environmental consequences if not adequately managed.