Why Fly Ash is Used in Cement in Bangladesh

For its affordable and eco-friendly trait, fly ash is used in cement in Bangladesh. It is produced in electrical generating stations after the burning of coal. When added to concrete, the fly ash in the cement increases the stability and resistance of the concrete. It also enhances environmental and sustainable construction projects through reductions in natural resource utilization. 

If you are wondering why fly ash is used in cement in Bangladesh, Mir Cement is here to answer your question! Keep reading!

What is Fly Ash?

Fly ash is a fine, powdery material that is produced as a byproduct of the combustion of coal in power plants. It consists of very fine particles entrained in the flue gases during combustion. These are then separated from the gases through various filtration systems or electrostatic precipitators. Fly ash consists of major components such as silica, alumina, and iron, which make the material useful for many purposes, especially in construction.

It can be class C or class F depending on the coal burning. Class C fly ash originates from burning lignite or sub-bituminous coal and has a high content of lime, while the class F type comes from bituminous coal and is normally low in the content of lime.

Depending on the coal’s origin, the contents in fly ash may change. Generally, it’s an aggregate of oxides – mostly silicon dioxide, iron oxide, and aluminum oxide. Fly ash is between gray and almost white; fine in texture. It is devoid of toxic properties and not chemically reactive.

 Overall, due to its fundamental physical nature, it leads to great potential for utilization, including in concrete buildings and many other building blocks. It is done for enhancement of strength and durabilities.

Why Fly Ash is Used in Cement in Bangladesh: Explained

• Locally Available: The coal-fired power plants generate a lot in Bangladesh due to which large amounts of fly ash are produced. Because it is locally available, it reduces the hassle of importing raw materials; hence, it’s convenient and viable for cement manufacturers. Local resource utilization also supports the country’s economy. To better understand the types of cement in Bangladesh you might read out this detailed guide from us.

• Cost-Effective Material: Fly ash is cheaper than conventional cement. It reduces the overall cost of concrete production, thus making it an attractive choice for construction projects in Bangladesh. Cost efficiency will help the builders stay within budget while maintaining the quality of their work. For insights into the advantages of using blended cement to reduce your construction cost in Bangladesh, you must read this article.

• Reduces Heat of Hydration: Fly ash reduces the heat of hydration in concrete or the heat developed when cement comes in contact with water. This will be very helpful during huge concrete pours to avoid cracks developed by the unusually high heat. Under the very hot weather in Bangladesh, fly ash maintains the integrity of the concrete structure. Learn more about the difference between OPC and PPC cement

• Boosts the Strength of Concrete: Fly ash increases the concrete’s long-term strength. Over time, it reacts with calcium hydroxide to form additional cementitious compounds, increasing concrete’s compressive strength. This leads to stronger and more reliable structures, ensuring that buildings and infrastructure in Bangladesh are safe and durable for many years.

• Enhances Concrete Durability: Fly ash usually improves the durability of the concrete mixed with cement on various counts, such as resistance to cracking, shrinking, and chemical attacks. This durability helps the life-supporting structures last longer and maintains them without repairs and additional renovation hassle on a long-term basis 

• Improves Workability of Concrete: Fly ash enhances the workability of concrete, making it easy to mix, pour, and set. It allows for smooth finishes and handling of concrete during construction. It is also easier to handle by laborers, saving time in performing the construction tasks. To understand more about what to consider before purchasing PPC cement, check out this blog.

• Reduces Environmental Impact: Fly ash is generated from the burning of coal in power plants. Bangladesh will be reducing its solid waste by utilizing it in cement and not allowing the residue to build up in its landfills. This process is part of a step taken to reduce the environmental effects of coal power plants while supporting sustainable construction in the country.

• Helps reduce carbon emissions: The use of fly ash in cement saves the usual raw materials, including limestone and clay. However, using fly ash could reduce carbon emissions from cement production. It is a positive trend that Bangladesh is joining with its own merits to keep up with commitments against global warming.

• Meets Industry Standards: Fly ash used in cement in Bangladesh is at an industrial standard for construction material. It is quality and safety tested before it reaches concrete mixing. This way, it paves the way for building safe and durable buildings and infrastructures all over the nation with reliable and high-quality materials. 

What are the Benefits of Using Fly Ash in Cement?

1. Improved Durability

Fly ash improves the durability of concrete, making it less prone to cracking, shrinking, and being attacked by chemicals, which extends the life of the structure.

2. Environmental Benefits

The use of fly ash diverts waste from landfills and utilizes a by-product from coal-fired generating plants, making the construction more sustainable.

3. Lower Carbon Emission

Fly ash consumes less raw materials, especially limestone, and reduces CO2 emissions from cement production, so it is greener.

4. Cost-Effective

Fly ash is cheaper compared to regular cement, thus helping to reduce the overall cost of construction without affecting the quality.

5. Improved Workability

 Fly ash increases the workability of concrete, making it easier to mix, pour, and finish, thereby improving construction efficiency and providing smoother finishes.

Conclusion

Fly ash is a very resourceful material in cement production within Bangladesh. It develops the strength, durability, and workability of concrete. Besides, this offers an economical and eco-friendly option to conventional cement. The use of fly ash decreases waste and carbon dioxide emissions; hence, it will be a good option in construction.

Hopefully, now you understand why fly ash is used in cement in Bangladesh! Thanks for your patience! Explore more about high-quality cement products on Mir Cement