Pond ash: An alternative material as fine aggregate in concrete for sustainable construction

Consequent upon increased generation of electricity through thermal route involving combustion of pulverized coal/ignite, concurrent generation of fly ash/pond ash in bulk quantities is a matter of serious concern not only because of issues associated with its disposal and utilization, but also because of its threat to public health and ecology. Though a lot of research has been carried out for the effective utilization of flyash like its use in construction industry etc, little literature is available on pond ash utilization particularly its use as a constituent material for concrete in construction industry. Hence pond ash - a waste material, if supplements shortage of fine aggregate (river sand) in mortar and concrete, reduces the demand for disposal of thermal power plant waste, reduces its environmental impact with proper utilization of huge quantity of waste in construction industry. Researches are being carried out worldwide which shows the suitability of Pond Ash as FA. This paper summerises various characteristics of Pond Ash as fine aggregate in concrete with its engineering properties such as its shape, gradation, texture, physical, chemical and also morphological aspects when used in concrete. © (2011) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland