Resilient characteristics of bottom ash

Abstract

This research aimed at evaluating the characteristics of coal combustion bottom ash for potential utilization in pavement construction materials. A comprehensive laboratory testing program was undertaken to evaluate the physical properties, compaction characteristics, and resilient modulus of bottom ash. The investigated bottom ash was obtained from power plants in Wisconsin and Michigan. Test results showed that there is a wide spectrum of bottom ash properties pertaining to specific gravity and unit weight; the investigated bottom ash samples were classified as granular material. Repeated load triaxial testing was performed to determine the resilient modulus of the bottom ash. Specimens were tested at the maximum dry unit weight and optimum moisture content. Test results demonstrated that the resilient modulus values of bottom ash vary depending on the physical properties and unit weight of the bottom ash. For four bottom ash types, the resilient modulus values were low compared with that of typical subgrade soils, while for one type the resilient modulus was comparable with/higher than that of a typical subgrade soil.