Effect of zeolitization on physicochemico-mineralogical and geotechnical properties of lagoon ash

A common method to dispose of ash generated from coal-fired thermal power p lants is to mix the ash with water and place the ash-water slurry in ponds or lagoons. Such a disposal system allows for the ash-water interaction. Al kalis present in the ash react with water, leading to zeolitization of the ash and changes in its overall properties. To simulate such interaction, co ntrolled experiments have been conducted on a typical Indian lagoon ash, an d the effect of zeolitization on the physicochemico-mineralogical propertie s has been studied. The effect of zeolitization on the geotechnical propert ies of the ash has also been investigated in detail. It is believed that su ch investigations are essential for bulk utilization of the lagoon ash, par ticularly as a fill material, where properties like compaction, consolidati on, and hydraulic conductivity are very important.