Can combustor ash be utilized?
Yes, however it is not widely practiced in the United States at this time. In Europe, combustor ash is not allowed to be deposited in landfills, therefore it is widely utilized. Bottom ash is primarily used in asphalt mix, but also in road base and bermapplications. Fly ash is treated and reused in building materials or deposited safely in old salt mines. In Minnesota, Polk County has performed two demonstration research projects substituting waste combustor ashas a partial replacement for natural aggregate in road paving projects. Both projects havebeen very successful at demonstrating superior structural performance and showing no negative environmental impacts. Two additional projects are planned for the summer of 2007.
