Investigating the impact of fly ash from mechanical soil improvement to concrete property enhancement

Moazzami, Alireza; Siah Mansouri, Erfan

doi:10.22075/ijnaa.2025.36697.5388

Investigating the impact of fly ash from mechanical soil improvement to concrete property enhancement

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Alireza Moazzami ¹

Erfan Siah Mansouri ²

¹ Department of Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran

² Department of Engineering, Faculty of Materials and Metallurgy Engineering, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran

10.22075/ijnaa.2025.36697.5388

Abstract

Fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion in power plants, has gained attention in the construction industry due to its unique physical and chemical properties. This material, owing to its high pozzolanic activity, can help improve the mechanical properties of soil and concrete, ultimately optimizing the performance of structures against environmental and mechanical loads. The use of fly ash as a stabilizing agent in soil improvement can lead to reduced permeability, increased cohesion, and enhanced soil resistance to compressive and tensile loads. Additionally, incorporating fly ash into concrete can increase compressive and tensile strength, reduce cracking, and enhance the durability of concrete against harsh environmental conditions, such as freezing and waterlogging. Furthermore, considering the environmental challenges posed by industrial waste production and the need for optimal resource utilization, the application of fly ash can mitigate the negative impacts of industrial waste and reduce construction costs. In the following studies, we will analyze the characteristics of fly ash, its types, and its effects on the mechanical properties of soil and concrete. Various tests, including swelling index, permeability, compressive strength, and other mechanical properties, have been conducted on soil samples containing fly ash. The results of this research indicate that the use of fly ash can lead to improved mechanical performance of soil and increased strength and durability of concrete. Overall, the findings suggest that the use of fly ash can be proposed as a sustainable and economical solution for improving soil and enhancing concrete properties in construction projects.

Keywords

Fly ash

soil

concrete

improvement of mechanical properties of soil and concrete

environmental effects

structures

sustainable and economical solutions

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