Influence of Different Binders on the Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Fly Ash Granulation-Based Stabilization Process

Municipal solid waste incineration fly ash (MSWI FA) is a hazardous waste that must be kept in special landfills due to the high amounts of chlorides, sulfates, and heavy metals. The granulation of MSWI FA could be used as a solidification/stabilization (S/S) of fly ash to immobilize hazardous chemical elements and to reduce dust emissions. In this work for granulation, three different binders were used: calcium aluminate cement (CAC), geopolymer (GEO), and Portland cement (PC). Chemical (XRF), mineral (XRD), granulometric compositions, and leaching of prepared granules are presented in the article. Furthermore, the impact of different binders on bulk density, compressive strength, and granule structure was analyzed. The results show that the granules with CAC binder have the best initial compressive strength (about 10 MPa), but these granules were destroyed after the leaching test or connection with water. The geopolymer as a binder did not provide the required compressive strength and immobilization of harmful elements. Granules with a Portland cement binder have a suitable compressive strength, a slight leaching of chemical elements, and good durability in the alkaline and acidic environment; they are also resistant to freezing and thawing cycles.