Research Programs
Our Research and Development (R&D) program is the second strategic activity area. Specifically, the Association is focused on the achievement of the following research goals:
- Review, consolidate and update currently held research information specifically on concrete; and support the dissemination of information to selected target audiences, which can lead to the beneficial use of CCPs.
- Investigate and recommend R&D that supports the increased use of CCPs in cement and concrete.
- Investigate, identify and recommend R&D into new use opportunities for CCPs that lead to large volume and/or high-value applications respectively.
In striving towards these goals, the Association has undertaken - and continues to undertake - various programs, consultations and initiatives centred on the development of these core objectives.
To date, these initiatives have included:
- Market research into consumer needs and perceptions regarding the development of uses of coal ash, to select the most beneficial scientific research projects.
- Formulation and durability of FA blended cement
- FA/Geosynthetic interaction
- FA concrete to comply with the Road and Traffic Authority (RTA) of NSW specification for concrete in bridges
- FA concrete in marine environments
- FA in flexible pavement structures
- Use of FA in pasture improvement
- Case study of FA concrete in MR situation at Tallowa Dam NSW
- FA concrete subject to sulphate environment — long term tests in accordance with new Australian Standards
- Handling properties of FA
- Properties of very fine FA
- Use of FA in recycled flexible road pavements
- Long term resistance of FA concrete to sulphate attack
- Leachate tests on Australian FA’s — TCLP Test
- A case study at Munmorah Power Station and a major research project into the use of high volumes of FA in road pavements.
- Survey of Australian Regulations and Legislation with potential to impact on FA utilisation
The Association is continually seeking research opportunities that can contribute to these objectives. Research projects are normally carried out by collaborative agreement, where the cost is shared between the Association and other interested parties. Since the formation of the ADAA, direct and indirect funding has exceeded $8 million dollars. More information about these initiatives can be obtained by contacting the Association.