International projects
FLOW - Lightweight alkali activated composite foams based on secondary raw materials
slags, fly ash, alkali activation, foams, thermal insulation properties, mechanical properties
Researchers (11)
Organisations (1)
Abstract
New possibilities for the recycling of inorganic wastes or industrial residues were investigated in order to avoid the disposal of waste materials in landfills. Aluminate- and silicate-containing materials can be utilized in alkali activation technology; when treated with an alkaline activator solution these precursors form a solid material at room temperature which could be used to replace concrete, ceramic and some other industrial materials. Additionally, significant environmental advantages are achievable by replacing the production of these energy-intensive materials by more sustainable processes.
The main objective of this project was to develop new lightweight alkali activated foams based on secondary raw materials (e.g. fly ash, slags). To obtain highly porous structures, properly selected foaming agents and foam stabilizing agents were added in the basic compositions. Currently, the main disadvantage of such lightweight materials is their high fragility. Fibers were used to overcome this drawback and help to produce materials with more elastic nature. By incorporating organic fibers from a bio-based renewable source, and simultaneously using inorganic secondary resources as raw materials for alkali activated foams, a high performance in terms of energy efficiency and environmental impact was reached. The developed materials have applications in wide range of thermal and acoustic insulating products.
