Microwave-assisted Curing of Cellular Lightweight Concrete: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Abstract

Cellular lightweight concrete (CLC) incorporating fly ash (FA) can be cured in only a few hours by using microwave energy and elevated curing temperatures (<100 ^OC). The concrete is strengthened by heating through a chemical reaction at a relatively low temperature. In Thailand, high-silica PFA materials can be obtained as industrial waste from electrical power plants. The CLC ingredients are mixed with an appropriate amount of water to obtain the desired consistency. The mixture is compacted in a mold and cured by 2.45 GHz of microwave energy. CLCs produced by this method are strong and relatively inexpensive to make. Thus, this technology could be useful for developing nations.