Super Material from Fly Ash: ProtectGD's Geopolymer Technology
Reduction of Heavy Metal Leaching by Hundreds of Times
ProtectGD's Geopolymer Technology is a breakthrough in transforming industrial waste, especially fly ash, incinerator ash, and red mud bauxite, into sustainable construction materials. With the unprecedented ability to reduce the leaching of heavy metals by hundreds of times, this technology meets the stringent requirements of EPA 2024 and significantly lowers landfill disposal costs by eliminating the need for expensive liner systems. This technology was patented in the United States in 2023, ensuring both innovation and reliability in the field of fly ash management.
Lower Landfill Disposal Costs
Our geopolymer technology has been proven to drastically reduce the leaching of heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead from fly ash, incinerator ash, and red mud bauxite by hundreds of times compared to traditional treatment methods. This not only protects groundwater and surface water but also ensures full compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) stringent regulations for the management of CCR (Coal Combustion Residuals).
Collaboration Opportunities
By utilizing a semi-dry compression process to produce geopolymer pellets, our technology reduces the need for costly liner systems in ash storage facilities. The ability to encapsulate heavy metals within a stable matrix significantly cuts down on disposal costs, providing at least 50% savings compared to current methods. This offers substantial economic benefits to utility companies and industrial plants.
We are open to licensing our patented technology to partners looking to implement it in their operations. Our solution not only guarantees economic efficiency but also contributes to sustainable development by substantially lowering the costs of coal ash treatment.
Outstanding Features of Geopolymer Materials
Heavy Metal Immobilization
The aluminosilicate structure of our geopolymer effectively immobilizes heavy metal ions, preventing them from leaching into the environment. Studies have shown that our geopolymer materials can reduce heavy metal leaching by up to 95%, providing a safe and sustainable solution for managing hazardous waste.
High Strength and Durability
Our semi-dry geopolymer materials offer high compressive strength, reaching up to 70 MPa. This makes them suitable for use in high-performance construction applications, ranging from infrastructure to industrial projects.
CO2 Absorption
In addition to minimizing environmental risks, our geopolymer materials can absorb CO2 from both the air and seawater, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This CO2 absorption capability makes our geopolymer an integral part of green and sustainable construction projects.
Water Resistance and Corrosion Protection
Geopolymer materials are highly resistant to water infiltration and corrosion, even in harsh chemical environments like seawater. This makes them ideal for coastal infrastructure projects, ensuring long-lasting durability and protection against environmental degradation.
Versatile Applications in the Construction Industry
Roads and Infrastructure
Our artificial sand made from fly ash has a high California Bearing Ratio (CBR), making it perfect for use in road foundations, airport runways, and other infrastructure projects. This material not only delivers excellent performance but also reduces environmental impact by utilizing recycled resources.
Environmental Protection and Sustainability
ProtectGD's geopolymer technology contributes to the circular economy by recycling industrial waste, thus minimizing environmental pollution and reducing the need for virgin materials. Our solution ensures that hazardous waste is safely managed and transformed into valuable resources for construction.
Properties of Semi-Dry Geopolymer Material (Fly Ash Pellets): Mechanisms, Applications, and Evidence
Semi-dry Geopolymer material, particularly in the form of fly ash pellets, has been proven to have significant potential in waste treatment, environmental protection, and construction applications. The synthesis of research and data from practical applications below provides a detailed and scientific view of the outstanding features of this material.
1. Durable Structure and High Mechanical Strength
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer is a material formed through the polymerization of aluminum and silicon atoms (aluminosilicate) under strong alkaline conditions. This process creates a highly durable three-dimensional aluminosilicate network, which not only provides high strength but also long-term chemical stability.
Geopolymer is a material formed through the polymerization of aluminum and silicon atoms (aluminosilicate) under strong alkaline conditions. This process creates a highly durable three-dimensional aluminosilicate network, which not only provides high strength but also long-term chemical stability.
Research in Russia
A study conducted at Moscow State University of Civil Engineering showed that Geopolymer has high compressive strength, ranging from 20 MPa to 70 MPa, depending on the composition and treatment conditions. This allows Geopolymer to withstand high pressures in harsh environments, including infrastructure construction and waste treatment.
Practical Application:
Savannah River Site (USA)
Geopolymer has been used to immobilize radioactive waste due to its high strength and long-term stability during underground storage. This helps prevent the release of radiation into the environment.
2. Heavy Metal Absorption and Immobilization
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer acts as a strong adsorbent due to its microporous structure and robust chemical bonds. The absorption process of heavy metals such as Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Mercury (Hg) occurs through ion exchange reactions, where metal ions are trapped within the aluminosilicate structure of the Geopolymer.
Geopolymer acts as a strong adsorbent due to its microporous structure and robust chemical bonds. The absorption process of heavy metals such as Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Mercury (Hg) occurs through ion exchange reactions, where metal ions are trapped within the aluminosilicate structure of the Geopolymer.
Research in India
A study published in the "Journal of Hazardous Materials" showed that Geopolymer can reduce heavy metal leaching from fly ash by up to 95%. This is particularly crucial in industrial wastewater treatment and groundwater protection from heavy metal pollution.
Practical Application:
Hindalco Industries (India)
At Hindalco's aluminum production plants, Geopolymer has been used to immobilize heavy metals from red mud, a byproduct of aluminum production. On-site tests have shown that Geopolymer can effectively absorb and isolate Arsenic, preventing heavy metal contamination in the surrounding environment.
3. Insolubility and Resistance to Water, Including Seawater
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer’s insolubility in water, including seawater, is attributed to its robust three-dimensional aluminosilicate structure, which does not degrade when exposed to water. The strong ionic bonds within Geopolymer help it resist chemical breakdown, particularly in high-salinity seawater environments.
Geopolymer’s insolubility in water, including seawater, is attributed to its robust three-dimensional aluminosilicate structure, which does not degrade when exposed to water. The strong ionic bonds within Geopolymer help it resist chemical breakdown, particularly in high-salinity seawater environments.
Research in Europe
A study at the French National Institute of Building Materials (INSA) demonstrated that Geopolymer maintained its water resistance and remained unaffected by seawater after six months of testing.
Practical Application:
Land Reclamation Project in Japan
Geopolymer was used in a coastal reclamation project in Tokyo to construct wave-blocking blocks. Thanks to its water and seawater corrosion resistance, the Geopolymer pellets have maintained durability without degradation after years of direct exposure to seawater.
4. Heat Resistance and Fireproofing
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer exhibits high heat resistance due to the strong bonds between aluminum and silicon ions, allowing it to retain its mechanical properties even when exposed to temperatures up to 1000°C. This makes it a safe construction material in environments with fire and explosion risks.
Geopolymer exhibits high heat resistance due to the strong bonds between aluminum and silicon ions, allowing it to retain its mechanical properties even when exposed to temperatures up to 1000°C. This makes it a safe construction material in environments with fire and explosion risks.
Research in the USA
According to a study published in the "Journal of Materials Science," Geopolymer not only has excellent fire resistance but also does not emit toxic gases when exposed to high temperatures.
Practical Application:
Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (Ukraine)
After the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, Geopolymer was used to encapsulate contaminated areas due to its excellent heat resistance and fireproofing capabilities. This material helped contain radiation and reduce the risk of fire in the radioactive zone.
5. CO2 Absorption and Storage
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer can absorb and store CO2 due to its microporous structure, allowing CO2 to be fixed in its small capillaries. This process occurs through both physical adsorption and chemical reactions with hydroxyl (-OH) groups on the Geopolymer’s surface, forming stable compounds.
Geopolymer can absorb and store CO2 due to its microporous structure, allowing CO2 to be fixed in its small capillaries. This process occurs through both physical adsorption and chemical reactions with hydroxyl (-OH) groups on the Geopolymer’s surface, forming stable compounds.
Test Result
Research in Australia
According to a report by the "Australian Journal of Environmental Chemistry," Geopolymer can absorb up to 10-20% CO2 by weight, helping reduce atmospheric CO2 and contributing to efforts against climate change.
Practical Application:
Cement Plants in Europe
Geopolymer has been used as a substitute for Portland cement in green building projects, helping reduce CO2 emissions. In Germany, infrastructure projects using Geopolymer have demonstrated its effectiveness in carbon capture and met EU sustainability standards.
6. Radiation Resistance
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer has the ability to immobilize radioactive ions due to its microporous and robust aluminosilicate network. This traps radioactive ions such as Cesium (Cs), Strontium (Sr), and Uranium (U) within the material, preventing their release into the environment.
Geopolymer has the ability to immobilize radioactive ions due to its microporous and robust aluminosilicate network. This traps radioactive ions such as Cesium (Cs), Strontium (Sr), and Uranium (U) within the material, preventing their release into the environment.
Test Result
Research in Russia
Experiments at the National Research Institute of Nuclear Energy in Russia showed that Geopolymer could immobilize Cesium and Strontium, two common radioactive substances, for extended periods without leaching into the environment.
Practical Application:
Mayak Plant (Russia)
At the Mayak nuclear waste processing plant, Geopolymer is used to treat both solid and liquid radioactive waste. This material helps prevent the spread of radiation, reducing the risk of environmental contamination.
7. Corrosion Resistance and Chemical Durability
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer resists corrosion due to its aluminosilicate structure, which is impervious to many harsh chemicals, including acids and bases. This allows the material to maintain its mechanical and chemical properties even when exposed to aggressive chemical environments.
Geopolymer resists corrosion due to its aluminosilicate structure, which is impervious to many harsh chemicals, including acids and bases. This allows the material to maintain its mechanical and chemical properties even when exposed to aggressive chemical environments.
Research at the University of Cambridge (UK)
Geopolymer was tested in environments containing sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid, and the results showed that it did not degrade after 30 days of continuous exposure.
Practical Application:
Chemical Processing Plants in Germany
Geopolymer has been used to construct chemical tanks and pipelines at processing plants, where its corrosion resistance helps reduce maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of equipment
8. Sustainable Construction Applications
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer is an ideal substitute for Portland cement due to its ability to reduce CO2 emissions during production. Unlike Portland cement, Geopolymer does not require high-temperature calcination, which is the main contributor to CO2 emissions in traditional cement manufacturing.
Geopolymer is an ideal substitute for Portland cement due to its ability to reduce CO2 emissions during production. Unlike Portland cement, Geopolymer does not require high-temperature calcination, which is the main contributor to CO2 emissions in traditional cement manufacturing.
Research at the University of California, Berkeley (USA)
Studies have shown that producing Geopolymer can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to Portland cement. This makes Geopolymer a much greener material for large-scale construction projects.
Practical Application:
Infrastructure projects in the Netherlands
Geopolymer has been used in highway and bridge construction projects in the Netherlands. This material not only helps reduce environmental impact but also enhances the durability and strength of structures. These projects have been recognized as a model for using sustainable building materials.
9. Antibacterial Properties and Water Treatment
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer can be enhanced with antibacterial additives during production, which prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi in moist environments. Tests have demonstrated that the material can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus by up to 98%.
Geopolymer can be enhanced with antibacterial additives during production, which prevents the growth of bacteria and fungi in moist environments. Tests have demonstrated that the material can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus by up to 98%.
Research at the University of Science and Technology of China
Tests showed that antibacterial Geopolymer can effectively inhibit microbial growth, making it an ideal material for water treatment systems.
Practical Application:
Water filtration systems in Israel
Geopolymer is used in industrial water filtration systems to absorb heavy metals and prevent bacterial growth. Field tests showed that Geopolymer could remove up to 95% of toxic substances like lead and mercury from industrial wastewater, meeting environmental safety standards.
10. Customizable Physical Properties
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer's physical and mechanical properties, such as hardness, compressive strength, water permeability, and abrasion resistance, can be customized by altering its composition and production process. This allows the material to be optimized for specific applications, from construction to waste treatment.
Geopolymer's physical and mechanical properties, such as hardness, compressive strength, water permeability, and abrasion resistance, can be customized by altering its composition and production process. This allows the material to be optimized for specific applications, from construction to waste treatment.
Research at Delft University of Technology (Netherlands)
Scientists experimented with different compositions to adjust Geopolymer's compressive strength and abrasion resistance. Results showed that Geopolymer could achieve a hardness rating of Mohs 7, equivalent to quartz, and have higher compressive strength than traditional concrete in certain conditions.
Practical Application:
Infrastructure projects in Australia
Geopolymer has been used in road and urban infrastructure construction in Australia, where its high compressive strength and long lifespan reduce maintenance costs and ensure the sustainability of structures.
11. Radioactive Waste Management and Storage
Physical and Chemical Mechanism:
Geopolymer's ability to absorb and immobilize radioactive ions is due to its porous structure and durable aluminosilicate network. This securely traps radioactive ions like Cesium (Cs), Strontium (Sr), and Uranium (U) within the material, preventing them from leaking into the environment.
Geopolymer's ability to absorb and immobilize radioactive ions is due to its porous structure and durable aluminosilicate network. This securely traps radioactive ions like Cesium (Cs), Strontium (Sr), and Uranium (U) within the material, preventing them from leaking into the environment.
Research at the French National Institute for Nuclear Energy (CEA)
Tests demonstrated that Geopolymer could retain 99% of radioactive ions in a simulated water environment for long-term nuclear waste storage. This significantly reduces the risk of radioactive leakage from nuclear waste repositories.
Practical Application:
Sellafield Nuclear Facility (UK)
Geopolymer has been used at the Sellafield facility to store and treat radioactive waste, thanks to its ability to immobilize radiation over long periods. This material prevents radiation from leaking into the environment and ensures the safety of workers operating in contaminated areas.