Utilization of Circulating Fluidized Bed Combustion (CFBC) Fly Ash and Coal-Fired Fly Ash in Portland Cement

Abstract

Circulating fluidized bed combustion (CFBC) fly ash is a promising admixture for construction and building materials due to its pozzolanic activity and self-cementitious property. In this study, CFBC fly ash and coal-fired fly ash were used in Portland cement to investigate the pozzolanic and cementitious characteristics of CFBC fly ash and the properties of cement-based composites. Tests show that CFBC fly ash has the potential instead of cementing materials and as an alternative of pozzolan. In fresh specimens, the initial setting time of mortars increases with the increasing amount of cement replacement by CFBC fly ash and coal-fire fly ash. In harden specimens, adding CFBC fly ash to replace OPC reduces the compressive strength. Meanwhile, CFBC fly ash would results in a higher length change when adding over 30%. Based on the results, the amount of CFBC fly ash replacement cement was recommended to be limited below 20%.