Synthesis of Porous Materials Based on Coal Combustion by-Products from Thermal Power Plants Using Self-Foaming

Abstract

This study examines the synthesis of porous materials derived from various types of coal combustion by-products (fly ash, boiler slag, and bottom ash) using a self-foaming approach with the fluxing agent Na₂B₄O₇. The internal structure and density of the samples were analyzed in relation to foaming temperature and flux content. The results indicate that samples based on boiler slag exhibit the most uniform structure. The study also elucidates the influence of phase composition on sintering and foaming intensity, including the enhanced reactivity of glass-phase components and the facilitated softening of aluminosilicate matrices.