Chemical Characterization and Morphological Analysis of Fly Ash from an Indian Power Plant: Insights into Elemental Composition and Crystal Structure

Abstract

The growing production of fly ash waste in India calls for its exploration as a construction material, particularly for road construction and filling applications. To effectively utilize fly ash, it is crucial to characterize the fly ash in various aspects. This paper focuses on the detailed characterization of fly ash procured from MTPC, Bankura, with three different size fractions collected using an electrostatic precipitator (ESP). These fractions include coarse-grained (FCDC), medium-grained (FMDC), and fine-grained (FMDC) fly ash. The study aims to comprehensively understand the toxicity, composition, and potential applications of this industrial waste ash. Several tests were conducted, including pH analysis, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), loss on ignition (LOI), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and FE-SEM with EDX spectroscopy. From the experimental result, it is noticed that the nature of fly ash is alkaline, with a pH range of 7.01 to 9.22. This alkaline nature of fly ash may be the presence of various chemical compounds such as calcium, magnesium and potassium oxides or hydroxides. The morphology results of fly ash samples indicate the particles of ash specimens are glassy and spherical in nature, with about 90% of silica, alumina and ferric oxide and high content of quartz and mullite minerals. results of these tests provide valuable insights into the physical and chemical characteristics of fly ash, enabling informed decision-making regarding its safe and effective utilization in construction applications.