Influence of the quantity and dispersion of ash on the formation of the structure and properties of cement stone

Environmental issues require big attention from the public and environmental organizations. Ash is fine, consists mainly of spherical glassy particles, is formed during the combustion of finely ground coal, and has pozzolanic properties and/or hydraulic activity. The use of ash in concrete production offers an economical and ecological way of its disposal in comparison with blast furnace slag, which is also a common pozzolanic additive; and ash does not need to be granulated and grinded. This article examines the replacing part of the Portland cement with dump ash and additionally ground ash. Reducing the particle size of ash leads to an increase in surface area, while adding it as a partial replacement of cement improves the strength, durability and microstructural characteristics of cement stone. The results of determining the physical and chemical characteristics of cement stone with varying ash substitution are presented.