Background

Fly ash is produced as particles that rise with the flue gas during combustion of various materials. The most common fly ash is coal fly ash produced at coal-fired power, yet incineration of other materials such as biomass and refused-derived fuels (RDF) also produces fly ash. Fly ash has valuable use in many building products such as Portland cement and concrete, as well as being used for soil stabilization, fertilization and other agricultural uses. Whether fly ash is used or will simply go to a landfill, both the major oxides and the trace elements are important to monitor, including toxic metals. A simple and fast means of measurement is required that is capable of determining complex matrix variations.