Using Ash Aids Environment

Because of the shortages of Portland cement, a potential increase in the use of fly ash is seen in the industry. If and when more fly ash is used to replace cement in concrete production there will be two big benefits to the environment; a reduction of 1.0 to 1.1 tons of greenhouse gases for every ton of fly ash used as a cement replacement; a savings of $320,000 in landfill disposal costs for every 85,000 tons of fly ash used making concrete. Great River Energy Products produces fly ash at its Coal Creek Station in North Dakota. This coal combustion bi product can be used in conjunction with cement to make concrete that is stronger and more durable than concrete made with cement alone. In replacing a portion of the cement, there is a concomitant reduction in the demand for cement. The cement shortage is an opportunity for concrete users to learn more about proper use of higher volumes of fly ash in their concrete that can enhance performance while replacing 30 percent or more of the Portland cement.