Principal investigator: Farnam, Yaghoob, Jason B. Baxter
University: Drexel University
Industry partners: SusMaX Inc
Drexel University and SusMaX propose to promote circular economy in Pennsylvania (PA) by developing a novel manufacturing technology that uses multiple solid waste streams as feedstock to produce lightweight aggregate (LWA) for construction and infrastructure applications. The needs for LWA is mainly imported to the PA construction industry from other states, causing higher shipment costs and final prices. Instead, our team will utilize waste coal combustion ash accumulated over decades in PA as the primary feedstock for LWA, with additional use of waste container glass and waste fiberglass-reinforced polymer composites to control the formation and engineering properties of LWA. Anticipated technical outcomes will include (1) understanding the physics and chemistry of LWA formation during thermal processing, (2) quantifying the engineering properties of LWA to assure they meet industry standards, and (3) applying life cycle assessment to develop robust circularity strategies in PA.