Strength Properties of Alkali-Activated Fly Ash

Abstract

Fly ash is a by-product of coal-fired power plants and a rich source of aluminosilicate. This paper reports the compaction and strength properties of fly ash activated with different concentrations of lime, cement, and alkali solution. The lime and cement content has been varied as 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10% of dry weight of fly ash whereas the concentration of NaOH solution is varied as 0.5, 1, and 2 M. In general, an increase in stabilizer content increases the MDD value whereas the OMC decreases. The maximum UCS value of the stabilized specimens is found to be 3.5 MPa. However, stabilized specimens are found to be brittle in nature.