Potential use of sewage sludge ash (SSA) as a cement replacement in precast concrete blocks

The present study explored the technological feasibility of re-using sewage sludge ash (SSA) as a Portland cement replacement in commercially manufactured pre cast concrete blocks. The blocks analysed were made to the guidelines laid down in Spain's National Plan for Waste Water Treatment Plant Sludge, 2001-2006, and European Union specifications (CE marking) for such products. Performance was compared in three families of blocks, with 0, 10 and 20% SSA. The findings proved that SSA is apt for pre cast concrete block manufacture and that, in addition to the economic and environmental benefits afforded, its use would improve certain of the properties of conventional block.