Project title: Utilisation of ash from incineration of wastewater sludge (bio ash) in the production of concrete
The objective of the project was to remove technical barriers for the utilisation of wastewater sludge incineration ash (bio ash) in the production of concrete, and at the same time reduce the amount of waste for disposal.
The bio ash can be added to concrete to supplement or in some cases even substitute Portland cement. Research projects indicate that concrete with bio ash has acceptable strength and that heavy metals of the ash will be immobilized to such an extent that it is environmentally acceptable to use bio ash in concrete. This is directly in line with the Sixth Community Environmental Action Programme calling for better waste management, sustainable production and consumption patterns. With reference to the 6th Environment Action Programme of the EU, the project will also contribute to clean technologies and reduction of greenhouse gases by the cement substitution, while reducing the amounts of waste (bio ash) for disposal.
This project aims to demonstrate that bio ash can indeed feasibly be used in concrete irrespective of the point of view taken; concrete technology-wise, environmental-wise or economy-wise.