Characterization and geotechnical properties of coal ash mixtures modified polyvinyl alcohol

Abstract

Coal is used to generate electricity. This study is to reduce the disposal problems of coal ash having nowadays and focuses on some properties of coal ash mixtures modified polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) which are fly ash (FA) and bottom ash (BA) from Jana Manjung coal power plant. A study has been conducted to explore the chemical and physical characteristics included pH value, particle size distribution and specific gravity. Besides that, the mineralogical and morphological characterizations are studied through Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Strength properties of coal ash mixtures modified are carried out by conducting proctor compaction test and unconfined compression test. The samples are compacted with maximum dry density, sealed and cured for 0, 7, 14 and 28 days before shear strength, morphological and mineralogical analyses. Results showed that it can be classified as well graded and have low specific gravity. In pH value, it also was suitable to prevent corrosion in reinforcement bar. For morphological analysis, the treated samples are bonded more closely. For mineralogical analysis, the crystalline compounds present in Jana Manjung coal ash were silicon dioxide, iron oxide, calcium oxide and aluminium oxide. The maximum shear strength was obtained at mixture of 50% BA and 50% FA. In can be concluded that the coal ash mixtures modified PVA can be applied in construction of embankments fill, roads and soil stabilization.