Russian Ministry of Energy Pushes Reuse of Ash & Slag Waste

The Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation has developed a roadmap that contains a list of pilot projects for the use of ash and slag materials (ASM) in road construction, as well as in the cement industry. According to the comprehensive plan, the feasibility study of the pilot projects of the Ministry should be submitted to the government in the fourth quarter of this year.

According to the Ministry of Energy of the Russian Federation, about 5-7 % of materials made of ash and slag waste (ASW) are used in the country today. In reality, over 70 % of ASW can be reused. In the summer of last year, a "Comprehensive Plan to Increase the Utilization of Solid Fuel Combustion Products at Coal-Fired Power Stations and Boiler Facilities" was developed to increase the ASW utilization rate up to 50 % by 2035.

According to preliminary estimates of the Ministry of Energy, the use of ASW in cement production will potentially reduce annual CO₂ emissions in the construction industry in Russia by 6.17 million tons. The use of secondary products from ash and slag waste will also reduce the thermal conductivity of concrete and lighten the mass of structures. Ash and slag materials can be used to strengthen soils, while cement with ash additives can be used for concrete in the base of road surfaces.

The Ministry’s plan will see its first effects with the introduction of amendments to the federal law on the contract system No. 44-FZ. This will ensure a guaranteed demand for ASM in reclamation and road construction. Submission of this bill to the State Administration is set for April 2021.

Another bill submission is set for December — it will provide a tax incentive for organizations specializing in the production of ASM products.