OBJECTIVES
The goal of the project Biochar and bio fly ash micronization and material applications in Kymenlaakso (HITU) is to micronize biochar and bio fly ash and to find novel applications to micronized materials and to develop the micronization equipment to be more suitable for research purposes. HITU-project is administrated by South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk). Xamk has experience and knowledge of bio fly ash treatment. The project duration is 1.8.2018–31.12.2020.
ACTIONS
In HITU-project bio fly ash from power plants is micronized and the utilization possibilities of micronized bio fly ash in concrete are studied. Concrete products with best qualities are tested in real environment. Furthermore, development possibilities of the micronization equipment and other suitable material applications for micronized bio fly ash are examined. Biochar from different origins is micronized and best technical material applications are investigated. With this kind of technical char it would be possible to reduce the need of fossil-based materials. The increased use of biobased materials decreases CO2 emissions. The advantages of micronized material are homogeneity and increased specific surface area and thus increased reactivity.
RESULTS
As results of HITU project reports on utilization possibilities of bio fly ash and biochar have been made, most potential applications are identified. In addition, the micronization equipment has been improved to meet the research purposes better, and concrete samples have been prepared and their properties have been tested. Furthermore the use of micronized bio fly ash in concrete products has been piloted. HITU-project is based on Kymenlaakso´s smart specialization RIS3 strategy in which one of the three key features is bio-economy.
The project enables growth in local knowledge of industrial side stream utilization and micronization and further develops Xamk BioSampo Bio and Circular Economy Research Center. Thus business, sustainable development and circular economy are enhanced in Kymenlaakso region. HITU project works together with businesses, municipalities and cities of Kymenlaakso creating networks for research co-operation. The results of the project are available for the teaching in South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences (Xamk) and for target groups throughout the duration of the project.
The horizontal principles are taken into account in HITU-project during its entire life cycle. The main theme in project implementation is sustainable development and its sub-categories. HITU-project advances utilization of industrial side streams targeting to reduce the amount of waste to be landfilled and increases knowledge of bioeconomy in the region. These are concrete efforts to enhance sustainable development in Kymenlaakso. Furthermore the principles of non-discrimination are basic values of the project and the Xamk´s plan for equality is taken into account in every action, for example in work distribution.