The Physical Durability and Electrical Resistivity of Indiana Bottom Ash : Executive Summary

This research assessed the long-term performance (durability) and the environmental effect (corrosiveness to adjacent metal structures) of Indiana bottom ashes, based mainly on laboratory investigation. The 5-cycle sodium sulfate soundness tests and the 50-cycle freeze-thaw tests were conducted to examine the physical durability. Four electrochemical characteristics (electrical resistivity, pH, soluble chloride, and soluble sulfate) were used to estimate the corrosion potential of Indiana bottom ashes. Evaluation criteria for durability and corrosiveness of bottom ash, based on appropriate specifications for aggregates and past experiences for soils, were developed. The comparison of test results and the above criteria shows that Indiana bottom ashes are durable but may be corrosive. The bottom ashes with a high corrosion potential should not be utilized in highway construction where metal structures are involved