Silica Waste Utilisation Phase II Laboratory Results

Abstract

A second phase of laboratory testing is being performed on waste silica from the Cerro Prieto geothermal field Mexico. The main objective is to produce mixes of various combinations of hydrated lime, portland cement, and plastic fibers the waste silica from disposal ponds to determine their suitability for use as insulating bricks in low cost housing. ement appear to have the highest flexural strength and resistance to weathering. Silica-lime mixtures appear to have best insulating properties (lowest thermal conductivity). The addition of plastic fibers to the silica-lime mixture appears to nprove both strength and weather resistance. Work is still in progress and will be completed in 1996 with the construction of arious test walls in the Mexicali, Mexico area.