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2025
ASHCRETE TECHNOLOGIES R&D CENTER
“
A Comprehensive Solution for MSWI Ash
Management on Long Island:
From Waste to Sustainable Material”
Bergen Point Ashcrete Seawall
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Pilot Project and Regional Rollout Plan
For Long Island and Beyond
Prepared for:
Honorable New York Governor
Kathy Hochul
Honorable New York Lieutenant Governor
Antonio Ramon Delgado
Honorable New York City Mayor
Eric Adams
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
President and CEO NYSERDA
Doris M. Harris
Director Bureau of Solid Waste NYDEC
Richard Clarkson
Solid Waste Recovery NYDEC
Kathleen Prather
Nassau County Executive
Bruce Blakeman
Suffolk County Executive
Ed Romaine
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Town of Huntington Supervisor
Edmund J. Smyth
Town of Hempstead Supervisor
Donald Clavin
Town of Islip Supervisor
Angie Carpenter
Town of Babylon Supervisor
Rich Schaffer
Town of Brookhaven Supervisor
Daniel Panico
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Town of Babylon Chief of Staff
Ronald Kluesener
Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Control
Town of Babylon
Tom Vetri
Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Control
Town of Islip
Lorenzo N. Cipollina
Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Control
Town of Hemstead
Michael McConnell
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Control
Town of Huntington
John Clark
Commissioner Department of Recycling and
Sustainable Materials
Town of Brookhaven
Christine Fetten
Presented by:
Joane Duque Ph.D.
Ashcrete Technologies
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center
https://ashcretech.com/
joaneduque@ashcretech.com
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
“
A Comprehensive Solution for MSWI Ash
Management on Long Island:
From Waste to Sustainable Material”
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Table of Contents
1. Executive Summary .......................................................................................................... 11
1.1 Overview of the Ash Management Crisis on Long Island ............................................ 15
1.2 The Proposed Solution and Its Impact .......................................................................... 15
1.3 Key Benefits to Municipalities, the State, and the Environment .................................. 16
1.4 Call to Action ................................................................................................................ 17
2. Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 18
2.1 Purpose of the Document .............................................................................................. 20
2.2 Stakeholders Addressed ................................................................................................ 21
3. Current Situation: Challenges in Ash Management .......................................................... 22
3.1 Diminishing Capacity at Babylon's Ash Monofills ...................................................... 23
3.2 Imminent Closure of the Brookhaven Landfill ............................................................. 23
3.3 Regional Impacts and Pressures.................................................................................... 24
3.4 The Urgent Need for Sustainable Solutions .................................................................. 24
3.5 Transportation and Regulatory Barriers........................................................................ 25
3.6 Limitations of Existing or Proposed RD&D Solutions................................................. 26
3.7 Risk of Inaction ............................................................................................................. 28
4. Regulatory and Environmental Considerations ................................................................ 31
4.1 NYSDEC and Federal Guidelines for Ash Handling ................................................... 31
“
A Comprehensive Solution for MSWI Ash Management on
Long Island: From Waste to Sustainable Material”
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
4.2 Permitting Requirements for Ash Transport ................................................................. 31
5. Proposed Technology and Transformation Process .......................................................... 33
5.1 Technology Overview:.................................................................................................. 34
5.2 Scientific and Chemical Principles ............................................................................... 36
5.4 Elimination of Ash Characteristics Post-Transformation ............................................. 41
5.5 End Product Properties and Performance Metrics ........................................................ 44
6. Possible Applications and End Uses of Transformed Material ........................................ 49
6.1 Infrastructure & Civil Engineering ............................................................................... 50
6.2 Construction Materials .................................................................................................. 50
6.3 Environmental & Remediation Applications ................................................................ 50
6.4 Public Works & Municipal Applications ...................................................................... 51
6.5 Industrial & Commercial Use ....................................................................................... 51
6.6 Emerging or Specialized Applications.......................................................................... 51
7. Pilot Project Proposal ........................................................................................................ 52
7.1 Site Selection Criteria ................................................................................................... 53
7.2 Recommended Partners and Stakeholders .................................................................... 53
7.3 Proposed Timeline and Milestones ............................................................................... 54
7.4 Testing and Evaluation Plan ......................................................................................... 55
7.5 Metrics for Success and Reporting Framework ............................................................ 55
8. Environmental, Economic, and Social Benefits ............................................................... 56
8.1 Elimination of Long-Term Landfilling Needs .............................................................. 56
8.2 Reduction in Transportation and Disposal Costs .......................................................... 56
8.3 Recovery of Valuable Metals ........................................................................................ 56
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
8.4 Emissions Reduction and Climate Impact .................................................................... 57
8.5 Economic Development and Job Creation on Long Island .......................................... 57
8.6 Contribution to New York State Climate Goals and Zero Waste Agenda ................... 57
9. Implementation Strategy ................................................................................................... 58
9.1 Immediate Next Steps ................................................................................................... 58
9.2 Proposed Policy and Permitting Roadmap ................................................................... 58
9.3 Recommendations for Inter-Municipal Coordination ................................................... 58
9.4 Suggested Formation of a Task Force or Steering Committee ..................................... 59
9.5 Timeline to Regional Rollout........................................................................................ 59
10. Risks and Mitigation Strategies .................................................................................... 59
10.1 Technical Risks ............................................................................................................. 60
10.2 Regulatory Risks ........................................................................................................... 60
10.3 Public Perception and Stakeholder Resistance ............................................................. 60
10.4 Risk Management and Communication Plan ................................................................ 61
11. Conclusion and Call to Action ...................................................................................... 61
11.1 Summary of Urgency and Readiness ............................................................................ 61
11.2 What is Needed from Stakeholders............................................................................... 62
11.3 Invitation to Collaborate and Transform Ash into Opportunity ................................... 62
12. Appendices .................................................................................................................... 62
Appendix A. Technical Data Sheets and Lab Results .............................................................. 62
Appendix B. Regulatory Analysis Summary ............................................................................ 62
Appendix C. Visuals: Process Diagrams, Material Flows, Before/After Micrographs ............ 65
Appendix D. NDA NREL ......................................................................................................... 65
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
“A Comprehensive Solution for MSWI Ash
Management on Long Island:
From Waste to Sustainable Material”
1. Executive Summary
Each year, Long Island produces approximately 400,000 tons of combined incineration ash from
its four municipal waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities. This ash, which contains both bottom and fly
ash, is currently landfilled, but options are rapidly shrinking as regional landfills approach
closure—most notably, the Brookhaven landfill. A practical, sustainable, and regulatory-
compliant solution is urgently needed.
This proposal presents a proven, ready-to-deploy technology that transforms incineration ash into
a completely new material—eliminating the need for long-term disposal, leachate treatment, or
complicated inter-state permitting.
Here’s how the technology works:
WTE ash exits the plant with a high moisture content, forming a slurry that, under conventional
approaches, would require extended time for leachate to drain before any treatment can begin. Our
process, however, starts immediately—leveraging a proprietary method that initiates rapid
chemical bound, effectively immobilizing the leachate within the ash. As a result, leachate is not
generated, and there is no need for additional leachate treatment as is currently required in landfill
operations.
In the first stage of the process, the fine particles present in the municipal solid waste incineration
(MSWI) ash—many of which are smaller than 75 microns—are chemically bound. This critical
step stabilizes the ash by locking these particles into a solid matrix, effectively preventing them
from becoming airborne or contributing to environmental pollution. By eliminating the risk of
fine particulate dispersion, this stage ensures that no dust or harmful emissions are released into
the surrounding area.
Following this stabilization phase, the treated ash undergoes a mechanical separation process
designed to recover valuable ferrous and non-ferrous metals. These recovered materials can then
be diverted back into the supply chain, contributing to resource efficiency and circular economy
goals.
Appendix C, Figures 2 and 3, provide visual references of the MSWI ash after this pre-treatment
process—offering both a standard and microscopic view. These images illustrate how leachate is
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
chemically bound and how the smallest particles are securely encapsulated during the early stage
of transformation.
Following metal recovery, the treated ash is combined with nano-composites, specialty additives,
and a binding phase. The resulting material is presented in a flowable form, in which all elements
originally present in the ash are evenly distributed throughout a stabilized matrix. Within
approximately 24 hours, this matrix rapidly hardens and can be resized into any particle size as
required by the application.
Appendix C, Figures 1, 4 and 5, provide visual references of Ashcrete the final product, in its
flowable stage, followed by the dry product a microscopic view of the dry product.
During this final transformation step, ash ceases to exist—chemically and physically—and a new
engineered material is created as it is demonstrated in this document in the Energy Dispersive X-
Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) tests in Appendix A. This material surpasses environmental leaching
standards, below is a comprehensive list of possible beneficial uses of Ashcrete—the transformed,
stabilized material made from MSW incineration ash. These uses cover civil engineering,
infrastructure, environmental remediation, and industrial applications:
Infrastructure & Civil Engineering
1. Road Base and Subbase
o Under asphalt pavements, highways, and access roads.
2. Asphalt Pavement Filler or Modifier
o Mixed with bitumen for structural performance.
3. Sidewalks and Walkways
o Durable, formable slabs for pedestrian paths.
4. Parking Lots and Industrial Pavement
5. Building Foundation Fill
6. Backfill for Trenches and Utility Installations
7. Grading and Site Preparation for Construction
Construction Materials
8. Precast Blocks or Panels
o Molds for walls, fences, sound barriers.
9. Modular Building Units
10. Artificial Aggregate Replacement
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
11. Roof Tiles, Pavers, and Slabs
12. Formable Decorative Elements
o Outdoor landscaping pieces, curbstones, etc.
Environmental & Remediation Applications
13. Sealing Abandoned Wells and Mines
o Ideal due to form-fill properties.
14. Land Reclamation Fill
o Stabilized fill for eroded, excavated, or degraded land.
15. Riverbank or Coastal Stabilization
o Erosion control blocks or formable barriers.
16. Cap or Barrier Material for Landfills
o Layer to reduce infiltration and emissions.
17. Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs)
o For in-situ groundwater treatment.
Public Works & Municipal Applications
18. Stormwater Infrastructure
o Non-structural fill for catch basins, swales.
19. Reinforced Retaining Walls
20. Bike Paths, Greenways, and Trails
21. Flood Defense Barriers
Industrial & Commercial Use
22. Flooring and Heavy-Duty Surfaces in Warehouses
23. Underlay for Railways or Light Transit
24. Bulk Storage Pads for Heavy Equipment
25. Fireproof Panels and Containment Walls
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Emerging or Specialized Applications
26. CO₂ Mineralization Matrix
o Can serve as a permanent carbon sink.
27. Radiation Shielding Material
o Potential in nuclear waste containment.
28. Embarkments
o Fill material in the construction of embankments for roads, railways, levees, and
dams.
29. Military or Emergency Infrastructure
o Fast-set roads and landing pads.
Why This Matters:
• Immediate processing — Treatment begins right after ash exits the WTE plant.
• No leachate production — Moisture is chemically immobilized from the start.
• No air pollution from fines — Fine particles are stabilized during hydration.
• Metal recovery — Captures value and reduces environmental burden.
• No ash remains — The process results in a fully transformed material.
• No waste byproducts are generated — a 100% clean green technology.
• No need for long-distance transport — The system is mobile and scalable.
• Transforms waste into a new product — Making waste 100% sustainable.
This is a ready-to-implement technology, fully aligned with the New York State Department of
Environmental Conservation’s (NYSDEC) stated goals for ash-related Research, Development,
and Demonstration (RD&D). NYSDEC has already suggested conducting an RD&D project to
evaluate and validate alternative solutions for the long-term management of municipal solid waste
incineration ash. Our process is engineered to meet and exceed those expectations. This initiative
will not only help address the 400,000 tons of ash generated annually, and establish New York
State as a national leader in ash transformation and sustainable infrastructure—offering a practical
solution not only for Long Island, but also for other regions across the state where ash monofills
are nearing capacity.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
1.1 Overview of the Ash Management Crisis on Long Island
Long Island, New York, generates over 400,000 tons of combined municipal solid waste
incinerator (MSWI) ash annually, primarily from four Waste-to-Energy (WTE) plants. This ash—
composed of bottom ash and fly ash—has historically been disposed of in two key facilities: the
Brookhaven Landfill and the Town of Babylon Ash Monofill [1].
The Brookhaven Landfill, long the primary destination for ash, has already ceased accepting
construction and demolition (C&D) waste and is preparing to fully close [2]. The Babylon
Monofill, once receiving approximately 55,000 tons annually [3, 4], as of December 31, 2022, the
northern ash landfill was at 90.15% capacity, while the southern ash landfill was at 69.25%
capacity. The Town anticipates closing the northern “U” ash landfill in 2027 and the southern ash
landfill in 2033. The loss of these two outlets has pushed Long Island into an urgent ash
management crisis, with no approved long-term solution currently in place.
Ash transportation off the island presents environmental, regulatory, and financial challenges.
Moving ash to other landfills within New York State would require NYSDEC permits and may
strain landfills already nearing capacity [5]. Transporting ash out of state or over the ocean may
also face federal transportation and environmental regulatory hurdles.
This crisis is not isolated to Long Island. Other New York landfills that accept ash—such as High
Acres, Ontario County, and Seneca Meadows—are also operating under limited lifespans or
community pressure to close [6]. A scalable and sustainable alternative for ash utilization is
therefore not only urgent for Long Island but critical for New York State’s broader waste strategy.
1.2 The Proposed Solution and Its Impact
The current crisis surrounding ash management on Long Island—and across New York State—
demands an immediate, practical, and environmentally sound solution. This proposal introduces
a transformative technology that enables municipalities to eliminate the need for ash landfilling by
converting MSWI combined ash into a new, high-performance construction-grade material.
The process begins with the delivery of ash from WTE plants, which typically arrives with high
water content or slurry form. Traditionally, this leachate would require draining and additional
treatment prior to any ash stabilization or reuse. However, our method accelerates the internal
drying of the ash by initiating a chemical binding reaction at the point of arrival. This controlled
leachate chemical binding process eliminates the need for separate leachate treatment, effectively
preventing the generation of contaminated water, as occurs in monofill settings.
During this initial chemical binding treatment, fine ash particles—including fly ash—are
chemically bound into larger particles, minimizing the risk of airborne particulate release and
improving material handling safety (Figures 2 and 3). Once leachate chemically bound, the ash
undergoes a controlled mechanical separation process that enables the recovery of residual metals
for potential recycling.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Following metal recovery, the remaining ash is blended with proprietary nano-composites, non-
hazardous additives, and a mineral binder. This produces a uniform, flowable material (Figure 4)
in which all ash constituents are evenly distributed within a stable matrix. After a short curing
time—typically less than 24 hours—this matrix hardens and can be resized into any particle
specification (Figure 1), enabling its use across a wide range of civil and environmental
engineering applications.
Importantly, this final material is not ash. The original ash has undergone a chemical and physical
transformation such that it no longer leaches harmful substances, passes applicable environmental
tests, and complies with beneficial use guidelines, additionally the technology does not generate
any residual wastes. The final product “Ashcrete” is no longer classified as ash or waste,
effectively eliminating the need for long-term disposal or special handling permits.
This technology is:
• Ready to deploy, with preliminary testing and demonstration-stage equipment already
available;
• Modular and scalable, capable of being installed near existing WTE facilities;
• Regulatory-aligned, supporting NYSDEC’s stated RD&D goals for ash beneficial use;
• And designed for broad statewide application, including at other sites where ash
monofills are nearing capacity.
1.3 Key Benefits to Municipalities, the State, and the Environment
The proposed ash transformation technology offers an immediate and long-term solution that
directly addresses the mounting ash management challenges faced by municipalities on Long
Island and across New York State. It not only mitigates the operational and environmental burdens
of ash disposal but also converts a problematic waste into a valuable material—turning a liability
into an asset.
1. Municipal Benefits
• Eliminates the need for long-haul transportation and disposal of approximately 400,000
tons of ash annually from Long Island, reducing logistical costs, truck traffic, and
associated emissions.
• Reduces ash-related liabilities, such as regulatory compliance for leachate treatment, air
quality control, and ash storage permits.
• Creates local economic development opportunities, as the transformation process can be
conducted in the region, supporting jobs and encouraging public-private partnerships.
• Stabilizes municipal budgets by replacing rising landfill tipping fees with predictable, cost-
effective transformation services.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
2. Benefits to the State of New York
• Advances statewide sustainability and circular economy goals by recovering resources
from waste and creating construction materials from non-virgin sources.
• Alleviates pressure on the state’s remaining landfills, several of which are approaching
capacity and cannot sustainably absorb ash from Long Island or other areas.
• Supports infrastructure resilience by providing new, locally sourced materials for roads,
subbases, reclamation, erosion control, and abandoned mine sealing—aligned with the
state’s climate adaptation strategies.
• Demonstrates leadership in environmental innovation, with potential to serve as a model
for other U.S. states seeking to phase out ash landfilling.
3. Environmental Benefits
• Stops ash from entering landfills, thereby eliminating long-term risks of leachate
contamination, groundwater pollution, and air emissions from uncovered or improperly
handled ash.
• Immobilizes heavy metals and fine particulates, reducing public health concerns and
ensuring compliance with environmental leaching standards.
• Reduces CO₂ emissions by decreasing the need for landfill-bound transport.
• Supports land conservation and protection of fragile ecosystems, by minimizing the
expansion or extension of landfill operations.
1.4 Call to Action
New York State stands at a critical crossroads. With Long Island’s ash monofills reaching capacity,
and no viable large-scale solution currently in place, the continued reliance on landfilling and
transporting ash off the island is both unsustainable and environmentally risky. At the same time,
municipalities are under increasing pressure to reduce environmental impacts, control costs, and
plan for a future without guaranteed landfill capacity.
Our ready-to-implement ash transformation technology offers an innovative, practical, and
science-backed alternative. It directly addresses the immediate need to manage hundreds of
thousands of tons of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash—eliminating the burden of
disposal, ending long-term environmental liabilities, and producing valuable construction-grade
material from a waste product.
We invite the following key partners to join a regional pilot project for this breakthrough solution:
• Long Island municipalities generating MSWI ash;
• Owners and operators of current and former ash monofills;
• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC);
• The Governor’s Office;
• Agencies and stakeholders responsible for public infrastructure and environmental
sustainability.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
This initiative is already aligned with NYSDEC’s Research, Development, and Demonstration
(RD&D) priorities. The department has suggested such a project, and we are prepared to act.
What is now needed is the collaboration and support of regional stakeholders to advance this
technology into full demonstration.
This is a unique opportunity for Long Island—and New York State as a whole—not only to resolve
the ash disposal crisis, but to become a national leader in sustainable waste management, ash
transformation, and resilient infrastructure development.
2. Introduction
For decades, Long Island’s waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities have played a crucial role in
managing municipal solid waste, reducing its volume and generating electricity for local
communities. However, each year, these facilities also produce an estimated 400,000 tons of
combined ash—a byproduct composed of bottom ash and fly ash. Historically, this ash has been
deposited in nearby monofills, particularly the Brookhaven and Babylon landfills.
The Brookhaven Landfill, once the primary destination for ash disposal on Long Island, ceased
accepting construction and demolition (C&D) waste at the end of 2024 [7]. It continues to accept
municipal solid waste incinerator ash, but the facility is projected to reach full capacity and close
entirely between 2027 and early 2028, coinciding with the expiration of its operating permit in
July 2026 [8] [9].
The Babylon Monofill, which received 55,000 tons of ash annually, was nearing capacity as of
December 31, 2022 — with the northern ash landfill at 90.15% and the southern ash landfill at
69.25%. The Town plans to close the northern section by 2027 and the southern section by 2033.
With the impending closure of these two critical disposal sites and no long-term alternative
currently approved, municipalities are now facing a growing crisis: Where will the ash go? Long
Island is in the midst of an urgent ash management challenge with no sustainable solution yet in
place.
A Shared Challenge with Far-Reaching Implications
Municipal leaders, regulators, engineers, and environmental professionals across Long Island are
now being forced to grapple with an issue that touches multiple domains—public health,
environmental protection, permitting, infrastructure planning, and financial sustainability.
Transporting hundreds of thousands of tons of ash off the island poses significant logistical,
regulatory, and environmental challenges:
• Permitting: Moving ash to landfills elsewhere in New York or across state lines would
require new approvals from the NYSDEC, and in many cases, out-of-state permits or even
federal compliance may be needed.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
• Landfill Access: Many other ash-receiving landfills across New York are already
approaching capacity, with limited space available for external waste streams.
• Environmental and Public Concerns: Communities are likely to resist proposals to
transport ash through neighborhoods or over Long Island Sound. Leachate and dust
emissions during transport add further concerns.
• Escalating Costs: The price tag associated with transporting, handling, and long-term
disposal of ash is expected to grow exponentially—creating a heavy financial burden for
municipalities and their taxpayers.
It is clear that continuing the current system is not sustainable. Nor is waiting for theoretical
future solutions that require extensive permitting, long lead times, or uncertain results.
A Ready and Realistic Alternative
This document presents a practical, field-tested technology that provides Long Island with a
transformative alternative to landfilling. Rather than viewing ash as a waste, our approach treats
it as a resource—stabilizing it, neutralizing environmental risks, recovering valuable metals, and
converting the remaining material into a durable construction-grade product and without the
generation of residual wastes. Through this treatment, ash ceases to exist in its original form and
is transformed into a new material, that can be made impermeable and even resistant to acid attacks
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G0HWUfD74U), non-leaching, structurally sound, and
capable of meeting the highest environmental and engineering standards.
Unlike other technologies that require ash to sit and drain for weeks or months, our process
introduces a proprietary treatment that accelerates leachate chemical binding, allowing chemical
bonding of fine particles and eliminating leachate as part of the first step. This rapid treatment
eliminates the need for separate leachate management or holding basins, removing one of the
largest technical and regulatory hurdles faced by traditional approaches.
What follows is not a theoretical concept or pilot-stage invention. This is a mature technology.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has already
acknowledged the potential of this approach and has recommended that it be pursued through a
formal RD&D (Research, Development, and Demonstration) initiative.
Shared Stewardship and Local Leadership
This document speaks directly to municipalities and regulators who are tasked with solving this
urgent challenge. Our goal is not only to offer a technical solution—but also to facilitate a
collaborative, regional approach to ash transformation. The current moment demands more than
reactive planning—it calls for visionary action.
Through this RD&D, Long Island has the opportunity to become a national model for turning a
difficult waste stream into a valuable material, while protecting groundwater, reducing transport
emissions, preserving landfill space, and supporting circular economy principles.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
We invite local and state partners to review this solution thoroughly, participate in the upcoming
RD&D, and work together to make Long Island—and New York State—a leader in sustainable
ash management.
2.1 Purpose of the Document
This document serves as a comprehensive and actionable roadmap for solving one of Long Island’s
most urgent environmental and infrastructure challenges: the sustainable management of over
400,000 tons of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) combined ash generated annually by
the region’s waste-to-energy (WTE) facilities.
The purpose of this document is multifaceted. It is designed to inform, engage, and mobilize a
wide audience of stakeholders, including:
• Municipal decision-makers responsible for waste management, budgeting, infrastructure,
and sustainability planning;
• Landfill owners and operators managing capacity, regulatory compliance, and long-term
liability;
• NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) officials involved in
regulatory approval, RD&D program oversight, and environmental protection;
• State and regional policymakers, including the Office of the Governor, with interest in job
creation, environmental leadership, and circular economy initiatives;
• Community leaders and environmental advocates who are invested in finding responsible,
forward-looking solutions for Long Island’s future.
At its core, this document presents a scientifically supported, field-tested, and ready-to-deploy
solution that transforms problematic MSWI ash into a stable, leach-resistant, and high-
performance construction material—commonly referred to here as Ashcrete. The proprietary
process prevents ash leachate, eliminates airborne particulate risk, recovers metals, and results in
a material that surpasses environmental safety thresholds. Most importantly, ash ceases to exist in
its original form, removing the need for landfill disposal and regulatory classification as “ash.”
This document has five key objectives:
1. To articulate the problem: Provide a detailed overview of the Long Island ash crisis,
including landfill closures, leachate risks, capacity constraints, and transportation hurdles;
2. To introduce a ready solution: Describe the proposed ash transformation process in clear
language, including how it accelerates leachate immobilization, enables metal recovery,
and produces a new engineered material suitable for reuse;
3. To align with NYSDEC goals: Demonstrate how this approach supports and advances
NYSDEC’s stated objectives around RD&D, beneficial reuse, environmental justice, and
landfill diversion;
4. To propose a regional demonstration: Invite key stakeholders to collaborate on a pilot
project on Long Island using real ash under controlled conditions, supported by NYSDEC-
approved RD&D permits;
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
5. To position New York State as a national leader: Show how this technology can be
replicated across New York—particularly in other communities where ash monofills are
nearing full capacity—and contribute to a long-term sustainable infrastructure strategy.
Rather than merely managing waste, this solution reimagines it as a resource, supporting the
development of local circular economies while protecting water, air, and soil quality. It also
reduces the costly and risky practice of transporting ash over long distances or oceans, which is
increasingly unsustainable from a financial, regulatory, and environmental perspective.
By providing technical clarity, regulatory alignment, environmental justification, and a clear
invitation for partnership, this document aims to transform hesitation into action. We believe the
time is right—and the technology is ready—to address the ash crisis with innovation, integrity,
and impact.
2.2 Stakeholders Addressed
This document is written with a wide and diverse group of stakeholders in mind—those directly
impacted by the growing challenge of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash management
in Long Island, as well as those positioned to be part of the solution. These stakeholders are critical
to ensuring that any strategy pursued is practical, scalable, and aligned with public interest,
regulatory standards, and environmental responsibility.
1. Municipalities Generating MSWI Ash
This includes the towns, cities, and agencies that rely on the four WTE facilities on Long Island—
Hempstead, Huntington, Babylon, and Islip—for their waste management needs. These
municipalities bear the responsibility for both waste disposal and the ash that remains after
incineration. With landfills nearing capacity or already closed, they face rising costs, legal
uncertainty, and pressure from residents to adopt cleaner, more sustainable practices. This
document offers them a local, feasible, and long-term solution.
2. Landfill Owners and Operators
Both public and private entities responsible for existing ash monofills and landfills accepting
incineration ash are at a crossroads. Many are under mounting pressure to manage leachate,
mitigate risks, extend the life of their sites, and minimize future liabilities. This technology can
offer an alternative path forward—one that shifts their role from end-of-line disposal to being
active participants in a transformation process that eliminates the need for long-term ash storage.
3. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC)
The NYSDEC has long recognized the need for innovation in ash handling and beneficial reuse.
With RD&D permits already encouraged for evaluating new technologies, this document directly
supports that mission. It presents a mature, field-tested process that can be validated within the
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
framework of DEC oversight, providing real data to guide future regulatory decisions and
beneficial use determinations (BUDs).
4. Governor’s Office and State Policymakers
The executive branch and legislative leaders play a vital role in enabling innovation, allocating
funding, and shaping statewide waste, climate, and infrastructure policy. This solution offers a
way to reduce reliance on landfills, create green jobs, and advance New York’s leadership in the
circular economy and climate resilience.
5. Transportation and Infrastructure Planners
As the costs and risks associated with transporting ash off Long Island continue to rise,
infrastructure authorities and planners must seek new models. This solution provides a way to
contain ash at the source and convert it into useful materials for roads, embankments, land
reclamation, and more—eliminating the need for long-distance hauling and ocean transfer permits.
6. Environmental and Public Health Advocates
Community groups, environmental organizations, and health professionals have raised valid
concerns about leachate, emissions, and long-term liability of landfilling ash. By transforming the
ash into a chemically stable and non-leaching material, this process aligns with their goals for
pollution prevention, environmental justice, and safe resource recovery.
7. Other New York State Regions and Counties
Beyond Long Island, other communities across the state are facing similar challenges with aging
monofills and ash disposal. This technology is designed to be scalable and adaptable to other sites,
offering a solution that is not only regional, but also replicable across New York State.
3. Current Situation: Challenges in Ash Management
Municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration is essential to Long Island’s integrated waste
management strategy, offering the advantage of significantly reducing the volume of waste that
would otherwise require landfilling. However, the incineration process generates a substantial
quantity of ash — primarily bottom ash and fly ash — that must be properly managed to protect
human health and the environment.
In recent years, the traditional ash management strategy, which relied heavily on local monofill
disposal, has faced unprecedented challenges. The combination of aging facilities, regulatory
pressures, and growing public concern over landfill impacts has created an urgent need to rethink
ash management practices across Long Island.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
3.1 Diminishing Capacity at Babylon's Ash Monofills
The Town of Babylon operates two ash monofills — the New Northern U Ashfill and the Southern
Ashfill — which historically have served as primary repositories for the ash generated by the
Town's Waste-to-Energy (WTE) Facility.
• As of December 31, 2022:
o The New Northern U Ashfill was reported at 90.15% of its permitted capacity.
o The Southern Ashfill was reported at 69.25% of its permitted capacity.
Given the current rates of ash generation, projections indicate that:
• The New Northern U Ashfill will reach full capacity and is scheduled for closure in 2027.
• The Southern Ashfill is expected to reach full capacity and is planned for closure in 2033.
The Babylon WTE Facility produces approximately 55,000 tons of ash annually. With limited
remaining landfill space, the Town must act quickly to identify new outlets for ash disposal or
beneficial reuse to avoid significant operational disruptions and regulatory noncompliance.
Recognizing these challenges, Babylon issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in 2024 to solicit
technically and environmentally sound solutions for the beneficial use of its municipal solid waste
combustor ash. The Town’s objectives include reducing reliance on landfilling, improving
environmental outcomes, and ensuring long-term sustainability in ash management.
3.2 Imminent Closure of the Brookhaven Landfill
The Brookhaven Landfill, located in Yaphank, has historically played a critical role in regional
ash management. It has accepted ash from WTE facilities serving the towns of Babylon,
Hempstead, Huntington, and Islip.
However, the situation at Brookhaven has dramatically shifted:
• The landfill ceased accepting construction and demolition (C&D) debris in late 2024 as
part of a phased closure plan.
• It is scheduled to cease accepting ash by the end of 2025.
• Although the Town of Brookhaven filed a permit renewal application in early 2024 to
continue limited operations, there is no certainty that ash disposal activities will be
extended beyond the current deadline.
The closure of Brookhaven will effectively eliminate one of the largest and last remaining regional
ash disposal options on Long Island. Without Brookhaven, the region faces a serious shortfall in
permitted disposal capacity, significantly raising the stakes for developing alternative strategies.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
3.3 Regional Impacts and Pressures
The impending closure of both Babylon’s ash monofills and the Brookhaven Landfill is creating
a regional emergency in ash management:
• Severely Limited Disposal Options: No new local monofills are permitted or likely to be
developed in the foreseeable future.
• Escalating Transportation and Disposal Costs: Municipalities may be forced to haul ash
to distant out-of-state landfills, dramatically increasing operational costs.
• Environmental and Climate Risks: Long-distance transportation increases greenhouse gas
emissions, highway congestion, and accident risks, undermining regional climate and
sustainability goals.
• Public Resistance: Communities strongly oppose new landfills or expansion of old ones,
citing concerns about groundwater contamination, air pollution, and diminished quality of
life.
• Stricter Regulations: New York State’s environmental agencies are tightening landfill
regulations and urging a pivot toward waste reduction, recycling, and beneficial use
solutions.
Without proactive innovation, municipalities face skyrocketing costs, regulatory penalties,
service interruptions, and loss of public trust.
3.4 The Urgent Need for Sustainable Solutions
The changing landscape of ash management on Long Island demands an immediate and
coordinated response:
• Technological Innovation: Through a proprietary treatment process, we transform
municipal solid waste incineration ash—both bottom ash and fly ash—into a new, stable
material where the original ash ceases to exist. This process alters the ash at the atomic
level, neutralizing hazardous components and creating a chemically and physically
different substance. The resulting material is not only safe and non-leachable but also
strong, durable, and suitable for a wide range of applications and materials for
environmental sealing and remediation. This innovation turns a costly disposal problem
into a valuable resource, supporting a circular economy and sustainable development.
• Beneficial Reuse: Long Island is rapidly approaching a critical juncture in ash management.
As the Brookhaven Landfill prepares to fully close and the Babylon Monofill nears
capacity, municipalities face an escalating crisis with no long-term, approved disposal
alternatives in place. This situation underscores the urgent need to move beyond the
outdated model of "waste disposal" and adopt a forward-thinking, sustainable approach
centered on resource recovery.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
3.5 Transportation and Regulatory Barriers
Despite increasing pressure to divert ash from landfills, municipalities face significant
transportation and regulatory barriers that restrict the adoption of innovative solutions. These
challenges underscore the urgent need to shift the current model from waste disposal to resource
recovery, particularly as ash can now be transformed into a new material with multiple beneficial
uses in infrastructure, construction, and environmental applications.
Transportation Barriers
With regional landfills approaching capacity or ceasing ash acceptance altogether, municipalities
are often forced to haul ash to distant sites—a strategy that is economically burdensome and
environmentally counterproductive:
• Rising Costs: Long-haul trucking significantly increases the cost of ash management,
straining municipal budgets.
• Environmental Footprint: Transporting ash contributes to increased greenhouse gas
emissions and wear on public roadways.
• Operational Complexity: Ash must be managed in sealed containers to prevent dust, spills,
and leachate release, requiring specialized logistics.
• Community Resistance: Increased truck traffic through residential areas can trigger public
opposition, complicating transportation planning.
Without local processing or transformation solutions, transportation becomes a major barrier to
sustainable ash management.
Regulatory Barriers
Ash transformation technologies, while environmentally advanced, must navigate complex
regulatory frameworks before they can be widely deployed:
• Classification and Testing Requirements: In New York State, MSW incinerator ash is
regulated as non-hazardous industrial waste, but beneficial use is conditioned on passing
rigorous leachability and environmental safety tests.
• Permitting Challenges: Reuse of ash-derived materials often requires case-by-case
permitting, with lengthy review periods and unclear approval pathways.
• Public Misunderstanding: Despite scientific validation, public perception of ash as a “waste”
rather than a “resource” can generate political and regulatory resistance.
• Lack of Unified Standards: No standardized federal policy exists for beneficial use of
treated ash, creating inconsistencies across jurisdictions and complicating adoption.
These regulatory constraints often delay or prevent the deployment of technologies that could
otherwise provide safe, effective, and sustainable alternatives to landfilling.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Enabling the Shift to Resource Recovery
To unlock the full potential of ash transformation and reuse, municipalities and regulators must
work together to address these barriers:
• Develop Local Treatment Hubs: Ash can be transformed into a new material near its source,
minimizing transportation costs and emissions.
• Modernize Regulatory Approaches: Regulatory frameworks should recognize the shift
from ash disposal to ash reuse, with pathways for pre-approved, environmentally vetted
applications.
• Educate and Engage Stakeholders: Public and political support must be built around the
idea that treated ash is no longer waste, but a raw material for infrastructure, civil
engineering, remediation, and public works.
• Advance Policy Coordination: New York State can lead the way by developing clear
guidelines for the beneficial use of ash-derived materials across sectors.
This paradigm shift aligns with NYSDEC's RD&D goals and broader state priorities on climate,
waste reduction, and circular economy. By resolving transportation and regulatory hurdles, New
York can empower municipalities to adopt solutions that are cost-effective, environmentally sound,
and ready for regional implementation.
3.6 Limitations of Existing or Proposed RD&D Solutions
Over the past decade, numerous Research, Development, and Demonstration (RD&D) initiatives
have been proposed to address the mounting crisis of ash management in New York State,
particularly on Long Island. While these initiatives reflect a growing awareness of the need for
sustainable solutions, most remain theoretical, limited in scale, or technologically incomplete—
falling short of addressing the urgency and scale of the problem.
As municipalities face the closure of key monofills and surging transportation costs, there is no
time left for exploratory or incremental approaches. A comprehensive, scalable, and proven
technology is urgently needed. This section outlines the key limitations of current and proposed
RD&D efforts.
1. Focus on Ash Stabilization, Not Transformation
Most RD&D efforts to date have focused on stabilizing MSW incinerator ash to minimize its
environmental hazards—such as by encapsulating it with lime, cementitious materials, or polymers.
While stabilization may reduce leachability, it does not change the nature of the ash nor does it
eliminate the need for long-term landfill disposal. These methods often:
• Produce low-value products (e.g., stabilized fill).
• Rely on traditional cement or lime.
• Require continued monitoring and environmental controls.
• Do not eliminate the ash itself—ash remains ash.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
In contrast, the approach proposed here transforms the ash at the atomic level into a new
engineered matrix, thereby shifting the focus from “disposal” to permanent material recovery.
2. Laboratory-Scale Only, No Real-World Application
Many RD&D projects remain confined to bench-scale or pilot-scale laboratory settings. While
promising on paper, these technologies have not been tested at a municipal or regional scale, nor
have they been subjected to the real operational conditions faced by waste-to-energy (WTE)
operators and municipal planners.
Furthermore, municipalities often bear the risk and cost of conducting these small trials, while
delays in obtaining results postpone critical infrastructure decisions. No other current or proposed
RD&D project in New York has:
• Been proven using aged combined ash from ash monofills.
• Passed real-world leaching tests across multiple formulations.
• Delivered a fully cured, structurally sound product within 24 hours.
• Demonstrated true material conversion that ends the ash’s lifecycle.
3. Continued Reliance on Landfilling
Even the more “advanced” proposed solutions often include landfilling as the final step, whether
to dispose of non-recyclable fractions or stabilized residues. This does little to address the core
crisis—the lack of landfill space and the need to move away from long-haul, high-carbon disposal
practices. Instead of closing the loop, these approaches extend the problem into the future.
In contrast, our technology removes the need for ash disposal entirely, by upcycling 100% of the
treated ash into new forms suitable for infrastructure, civil engineering, and commercial
applications and without generating byproducts or residual waste.
4. Regulatory and Market Disconnect
Some RD&D proposals have not been developed with a clear understanding of New York State's
regulatory pathways, municipal budget constraints, or public buy-in requirements. Without
meeting the specific criteria of NYSDEC’s Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) framework, these
technologies cannot legally operate or be adopted. Limitations include:
• Uncertainty about long-term leachate behavior.
• Ambiguity about end-use classification.
• Lack of stakeholder engagement from municipalities or landfill owners.
Our solution is designed to fit directly within the NYSDEC RD&D framework, and aligns with
the agency’s stated goals for zero waste, circular materials management, and reduced greenhouse
gas emissions.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
5. No Material Versatility or Market-Driven End Products
Most current RD&D projects fail to produce materials with marketable characteristics, such as
compressive strength, consistency, and durability. Many only produce low-strength aggregates or
fill material that lack value and cannot be used in commercial concrete or infrastructure
applications.
Our technology, by contrast, yields a new material matrix with properties similar to aggregate. It
can be reshaped into any particle size, forms rapidly (within 24 hours), and is compatible with civil
engineering, public works, and industrial markets.
6. Lack of a Proven Pathway to Deployment
Finally, most RD&D proposals have no clear roadmap to full-scale implementation. They require
new permitting structures, costly retrofits, or undefined funding sources. As a result, even well-
intentioned projects often stagnate.
Our approach is ready for demonstration today. It has:
• An engineered process that handles combined, aged ash from monofills.
• A short curing time that allows on-site processing and immediate reuse.
• The potential to eliminate leachate management needs.
• Supportive feedback from environmental agencies and municipalities already familiar with
its results.
Conclusion: The Need for a Paradigm Shift
The existing RD&D landscape—while valuable for early exploration—cannot resolve New York’s
ash crisis in time. The current situation demands a paradigm shift: from waste stabilization to
material transformation, from theoretical projects to deployable solutions, and from landfill
reliance to regional reuse and material recovery.
3.7 Risk of Inaction
The risks of maintaining the status quo in ash management on Long Island — and across New
York State — are significant, immediate, and escalating. As landfills approach closure and
disposal options dwindle, failing to act will result in consequences that impact municipalities,
taxpayers, the environment, and the overall economic and infrastructural stability of the region.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Below are the key risks if transformative solutions are not urgently adopted:
1. Skyrocketing Costs for Municipalities and Taxpayers
With the Babylon ash monofill nearing phased closure and the Brookhaven landfill stopping
acceptance of C&D waste at the end of 2024, Long Island municipalities will soon face extreme
cost increases for ash management. Without local disposal options:
• Ash will need to be hauled off-island by truck or rail to distant landfills.
• Transportation, tipping fees, and associated costs could more than double.
• Taxpayers will ultimately bear these rising costs through higher waste management fees or
property tax increases.
Without a local, transformative reuse solution like Ashcrete, the financial burden on communities
will become unsustainable.
2. Increased Environmental and Public Health Risks
Transporting thousands of tons of ash long distances every year introduces serious environmental
hazards, including:
• Increased greenhouse gas emissions from trucking and rail transport.
• Greater risk of spills or accidents during transport of ash, which can contain heavy metals
and other contaminants.
• Higher cumulative exposure of communities along transport corridors.
Long-distance export is not a sustainable or environmentally responsible solution. In contrast,
treating and reusing ash locally eliminates transport emissions and associated risks.
3. Rapid Landfill Exhaustion and Land Use Conflicts
If aging monofills like Babylon are forced to continue operating without effective transformation
technologies, the limited remaining capacity will be exhausted even faster. This will create:
• Pressure to expand landfills into protected lands or residential areas.
• Lengthy permitting battles and community opposition.
• Land use conflicts that could paralyze municipal planning for years.
Local reuse through transformation, rather than disposal, protects precious land resources.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
4. Missed Economic Development Opportunities
Ash transformation technologies represent a chance for New York State to build a new green
economy around recycled infrastructure materials. Failure to act forfeits opportunities to:
• Create new local jobs in ash processing, materials manufacturing, and construction.
• Attract public and private investment aligned with New York’s climate and sustainability
goals.
• Develop leadership in circular economy solutions that other states and countries are
actively pursuing.
Delay allows other regions to leap ahead in innovation while New York falls behind.
5. Regulatory Non-Compliance and Legal Exposure
As landfill space disappears and long-haul disposal becomes the only option, municipalities may
eventually face:
• Violations of waste management regulations.
• Inability to meet sustainability targets under state climate laws.
• Potential lawsuits from environmental groups, residents, or regulators.
Proactive solutions now — rather than emergency measures later — will help ensure
municipalities remain in regulatory compliance and avoid costly legal consequences.
6. Erosion of Public Trust
Residents expect their local governments to manage environmental and financial risks responsibly.
Continued reliance on outdated landfill models, surging costs, and environmental degradation will:
• Erode public confidence in local leadership.
• Fuel public opposition to any future waste management proposals.
• Undermine regional efforts to promote environmental stewardship and sustainability.
A forward-looking solution like ash transformation restores trust and credibility by showing
proactive leadership.
Conclusion: Action Is Urgent and Necessary
The cost of doing nothing is far greater than the cost of implementing transformative solutions.
Inaction threatens Long Island's financial stability, environmental health, and public trust.
Ashcrete technology offers a tested, scalable, and environmentally sound solution that shifts the
region away from a waste disposal crisis toward sustainable material recovery.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
4. Regulatory and Environmental Considerations
Transforming municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration ash into valuable, usable material is not
only an environmental imperative — it is also increasingly a regulatory necessity. As
municipalities face mounting pressures from state, federal, and public stakeholders, solutions like
Ashcrete that align with regulatory trends and environmental goals offer a clear path forward.
By shifting the paradigm from waste disposal to resource recovery, municipalities and regulators
can turn a compliance challenge into a leadership opportunity, positioning New York as a national
model for sustainable ash management.
4.1 NYSDEC and Federal Guidelines for Ash Handling
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulate ash management under several frameworks:
• NYSDEC Part 360 series governs solid waste management facilities, including ash
monofills.
• EPA’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) classifies MSW ash as non-
hazardous waste, but mandates safe handling, transport, and disposal to prevent
contamination.
• NYSDEC Beneficial Use Determinations (BUDs) allow certain treated ash materials to be
reused, provided that environmental performance standards (e.g., TCLP leaching
thresholds) are met.
• State Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) encourages innovative
waste diversion and greenhouse gas reduction strategies.
Ashcrete technology is designed to comply with and exceed these standards by transforming ash
into a non-leachable, environmentally stable material suitable for beneficial reuse, a material
where ash ceases to exist.
4.2 Permitting Requirements for Ash Transport
If ash must be transported off-site — whether for disposal or processing — several permitting
requirements apply:
• Waste Transporter Permits: Required for any entity transporting regulated waste within or
out of New York State.
• Manifesting and Tracking: Detailed tracking documentation must accompany ash
shipments.
• Designated Disposal or Processing Facilities: Transporters must demonstrate that the
destination facilities are properly permitted to handle the waste.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Transporting untreated ash increases regulatory complexity and exposure to violations. In contrast,
local treatment and transformation minimize transportation needs, regulatory burden, and
associated risks.
Public Health and Environmental Risks
Ash contains trace amounts of heavy metals and other pollutants that can pose serious risks if
improperly managed:
• Airborne dust during transport or handling can expose nearby communities.
• Leachate generation from improperly contained ash can contaminate groundwater and
surface water.
• Accidents or spills during transport heighten environmental liability.
Ashcrete technology neutralizes these risks by stabilizing contaminants within a hardened matrix,
effectively eliminating leachability and dust generation. This dramatically reduces public health
and environmental exposure compared to conventional handling methods.
Legal and Political Pressures Facing Municipalities
Municipalities that continue to rely on landfill disposal face mounting legal and political
challenges:
• Landfill Closures: With Babylon and Brookhaven landfills winding down operations,
municipalities must find immediate alternatives.
• Community Opposition: Residents increasingly oppose new or expanded waste facilities,
citing environmental justice concerns.
• Climate Mandates: Local governments are under pressure to meet state and federal climate
and sustainability goals.
• Potential Litigation: Failure to properly manage waste streams could trigger lawsuits from
environmental organizations or neighboring jurisdictions.
Proactively adopting advanced ash transformation technologies positions municipalities as leaders,
not laggards, in sustainable waste management — mitigating legal risks and building political
goodwill.
Opportunities for Regulatory Innovation
Far from being a barrier, the regulatory landscape offers municipalities an opening to:
• Pilot innovative RD&D projects under NYSDEC’s guidelines, showcasing sustainable
practices.
• Secure BUD approvals for Ashcrete products, allowing treated ash to be reused in
construction, infrastructure, and environmental applications.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
• Qualify for climate and sustainability funding through state and federal grant programs
aimed at reducing landfill use and carbon emissions.
• Set a precedent for other regions facing similar waste management challenges.
Ashcrete aligns perfectly with New York’s regulatory goals of promoting resource recovery,
protecting public health, and reducing the environmental footprint of waste management.
5. Proposed Technology and Transformation Process
The proposed technology represents a fundamental shift in ash management—moving beyond
traditional stabilization or encapsulation methods to fully transforming municipal solid waste
(MSW) incineration ash into a completely new material with valuable properties. This innovative
process treats both bottom ash and fly ash through a proprietary chemical and physical treatment
that modifies the ash at the atomic and molecular levels. As a result, hazardous elements are
immobilized, contaminants are neutralized, and the material’s structure and chemical composition
are fundamentally altered.
Unlike conventional approaches that aim only to stabilize or contain contaminants, our technology
eliminates the ash's original hazardous characteristics, permanently changing its nature. The
treated material is chemically stable, non-leachable, and meets stringent environmental and
regulatory standards, making it safe for widespread beneficial reuse.
The resulting product exhibits enhanced mechanical strength, durability, and versatility, making it
suitable for a broad spectrum of possible applications.
A transformative solution lies in the treatment and beneficial reuse of municipal solid waste
incineration (MSWI) ash. Rather than viewing ash as a hazardous byproduct destined for landfills,
innovative technologies now allow it to be permanently transformed into a new material—one that
is safe, stable, and suited for multiple high-value applications. Once treated, the ash ceases to exist
in its original form and becomes a valuable resource for:
Infrastructure & Civil Engineering: Ashcrete can be used in road bases, embankments,
and other structural applications where strength, durability, and volume stability are
essential.
Construction Materials: Ashcrete can be incorporated into the production of high-
performance concrete, bricks, cementitious composites, and aggregates—helping to
reduce the demand for virgin raw materials.
Environmental & Remediation Applications: Due to its immobilizing properties after
treatment, Ashcrete can be used in the capping and sealing of landfills, mine
rehabilitation, and as a barrier in brownfield remediation projects.
Public Works & Municipal Applications: Cities can use Ashcrete for sidewalks, curbs,
park pathways, and drainage systems—creating a local circular economy where waste
from communities is reintegrated into their infrastructure.
Industrial & Commercial Use: Industries can utilize Ashcrete in manufacturing
processes.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Emerging or Specialized Applications: Potential uses in a wade range of specialized
application from CO₂ Mineralization Matrix, to nuclear waste containment, Fill
material in the construction of embankments for roads, railways, levees, and dams and
even for Military or Emergency Infrastructure fast-set roads and landing pads.
By adopting this paradigm shift, municipalities not only address the immediate ash disposal crisis
but also unlock long-term environmental and economic benefits. Importantly, such a transition
requires that environmental safety is rigorously assured through comprehensive testing,
compliance with regulatory standards, and transparent public engagement.
• Regional Cooperation: Municipalities must work together, sharing resources, technologies,
and strategies to develop cost-effective, scalable solutions that address the collective ash
challenge.
• Public Education and Engagement: Building public support for new beneficial use projects
is essential. Transparent communication regarding the environmental and economic
benefits of innovative ash reuse can help overcome community resistance.
Inaction will result in skyrocketing costs, regulatory penalties, and lost opportunities for
environmental leadership. Conversely, investment in sustainable ash management can position
Long Island as a national model for resource recovery and circular economy principles.
By transforming what was traditionally considered waste into a high-value resource, this
technology supports circular economy principles, reduces reliance on virgin raw materials,
minimizes landfill use, generates no residual waste, and contributes significantly to sustainability
and climate resilience goals. In essence, we are redefining ash—not as a liability, but as a critical
building block for a more sustainable future.
5.1 Technology Overview:
Treating, Chemical Binding, Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Recovery, Transforming Ash
The proposed technology involves a carefully engineered, four-stage process that fundamentally
alters the chemical and physical nature of municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration ash. Each
step is critical in achieving a complete transformation, ensuring environmental safety, high
performance, and versatility of the final product.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Treatment:
In the first stage, raw ash—whether bottom ash, fly ash, or a mixture—is treated with proprietary
chemical additives specifically formulated to target and neutralize problematic components. These
additives react with unburned carbon, free lime (CaO), soluble salts, heavy metals, and other
reactive or hazardous species. The chemical reactions initiated during this phase convert these
elements into stable mineral compounds. Rather than simply trapping contaminants inside a
matrix (as in conventional stabilization), this step chemically locks them at the atomic level into
new forms that are far less soluble and mobile, dramatically reducing environmental risks.
Leachate Binding and Immobilization:
The high moisture content naturally present in the ash—a result of the quenching process used to
cool the incinerated material—creates a significant amount of free leachate within the ash matrix.
Especially proprietary chemical additives are introduced to trigger fast hydration reactions within
this existing moisture environment. These reactions actively create exothermic reactions that binds
the leachate into a solid structure, initiating the formation of new mineral phases that bind and
immobilize the leachate and its dissolved contaminants. Through this process, free leachate is
chemically and physically locked into the structure of the ash, preventing it from mobilizing under
future environmental exposure. This critical step not only eliminates free leachate but also
stabilizes soluble pollutants, reduces potential leaching risks, and enhances the ash’s overall
chemical and mechanical durability.
Ferrous and Non-Ferrous Metal Recovery:
Following the initial binding and setting reactions, the treated ash undergoes targeted processing
steps to recover valuable ferrous and non-ferrous metals. After metal extraction, the remaining
solid material is mechanically refined. This refinement optimizes particle size distribution and
increases surface area, which is critical for improving the material’s reactivity, enhancing packing
density, and delivering superior physical performance in target applications. The critical ash
processing step ensures a uniform, consistent material with enhanced strength, workability, and
durability, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial-scale manufacturing and infrastructure
applications, all while maintaining strict environmental safety standards. Specific processing
techniques and formulations remain proprietary, providing a unique technological advantage.
Transformation:
The final stage (less than 24 hours) involves carefully calibrated curing, during which the treated
ash completes its transformation into a stable, durable, and non-toxic engineered material
Appendix C, Figures 1, provide visual references of Ashcrete the final product. Through a
combination of time, temperature, and moisture control, further mineralization and crystallization
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
processes occur, permanently locking in any remaining contaminants and enhancing mechanical
properties. The end product is structurally and chemically distinct from the original ash—no
longer recognizable as waste, but as a new, high-value material fit for use in demanding
infrastructure, environmental remediation, and industrial applications.
This transformative approach goes far beyond simple encapsulation or surface coating methods
used in traditional stabilization technologies. Instead, it creates entirely new mineral structures at
the molecular level that are resistant to leaching, weathering, and chemical degradation, even under
extreme environmental conditions. As a result, the material can be safely and confidently used in
long-term, critical applications, supporting both environmental protection and sustainable resource
recovery initiatives.
5.2 Scientific and Chemical Principles
The technology leverages advanced chemical and materials science principles to transform
municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash into a stable, non-hazardous material. Below is
an expanded explanation of the core mechanisms:
1. Pozzolanic Reactions
The core of the technology is the utilization of pozzolanic reactions, which involve the silica-rich
components of the ash (often found in both fly ash and bottom ash) reacting with calcium
hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). This reaction leads to the formation of calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H).
The C-S-H gels contribute significantly to the strength, impermeability, and durability of the final
material. This process makes the material more sustainable by lowering carbon emissions
associated with traditional cement production.
2. Mineralization of Heavy Metals:
A key feature of this technology is its ability to chemically immobilize hazardous metals such as
lead, cadmium, zinc, and other toxic elements found in municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI)
ash. Through specific chemical treatments, these metals are incorporated into stable mineral
phases, such as silicates, phosphates, or other complex minerals. This incorporation effectively
locks the metals into the structure, rendering them non-leachable, meaning they cannot migrate
into the surrounding environment under normal conditions. The end result is a material that not
only serves as a construction aggregate but also safely isolates contaminants, providing an
effective solution to hazardous waste management.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
3. Carbonation:
Some of the processes used in the technology facilitate carbonation, where the material reacts with
atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂). This reaction leads to the formation of stable carbonates, such
as calcium carbonate, within the material matrix. Carbonation not only contributes to the long-
term stability of the generated material “Ashcrete” but also enhances its environmental
performance by sequestering CO₂, thus reducing the overall carbon footprint. The carbonate
formation further increases the chemical stability and resistance of the material to degradation
from external environmental factors, such as acidic conditions or moisture.
5. Optimization for Irreversible Transformation:
Each step in the process is meticulously optimized to ensure that the transformations occurring
within the material are irreversible. The goal is to create a final product that is chemically inert or
near inert, physically robust, and resistant to environmental degradation, that complies with all
environmental requirements. The combination of pozzolanic reactions, heavy metal
immobilization, and carbonation ensures that the material is not only durable but also
environmentally responsible. Once the ash is treated, it is transformed into a new material where
its original toxic properties are neutralized, and it ceases to pose a hazard, making it suitable for
use in a variety of applications, including construction and infrastructure development.
5.3 Transformation at the Atomic Level: Evidence and Testing
The Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) analysis Table 1 (comparative MSWI Ash
Elemental Composition vs 2 Ashcrete EDX tests), provides direct and insightful evidence of the
atomic-level transformations that occur during the advanced treatment of MSWI ash. The EDX
data serves to confirm the effectiveness of the treatment process, highlighting key changes in
elemental composition and the formation of new mineral phases. These findings are critical in
understanding how treated ash can be converted into a high-performance, environmentally stable
material suitable for construction applications like Ashcrete. Below is an expanded interpretation
of the key findings from the EDX test report, which demonstrates the atomic transformations
occurring within the treated ash.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Table 1. Comparative Elemental Analysis MSWI BA AND MSWI FA vs Ashcrete EDX
Elemental Analysis.
Element
MSWIBA Range
(wt%)
MSWIFA Range
(wt%)
EDX Test 1
(ASHCRETE OR)
EDX Test 2
(ASHCRETE)
Al
2–10%
5–15%
Not Detected
Detected qualitatively
Si
10–25%
5–20%
4.702%
3.327%
Ca
15–40%
15–30%
78.116%
74.372%
Fe
5–15%
2–8%
9.555%
8.461%
K
0.5–3%
2–6%
0.374%
0.327%
Na
0.5–4%
5–10%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Mg
1–5%
1–4%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Ti
0.5–2%
0.5–2%
4.887%
10.276%
P
0.5–2%
1–5%
Not Detected
Not Detected
S
0.2–1%
2–8%
0.345%
0.717%
Cl
0.1–1%
5–15%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Zn
0.5–2%
2–8%
0.775%
0.680%
Cu
0.1–1%
0.5–2%
0.242%
1.028%
Pb
0.05–0.5%
0.5–5%
0.3298%
0.203%
Cr
0.02–0.5%
0.2–1%
0.139%
0.144%
Mn
0.05–1%
0.05–0.5%
0.183%
0.143%
Ni
0.01–0.2%
0.1–0.5%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Ba
0.05–1%
0.2–1%
Detected qualitatively
Detected qualitatively
Sr
0.01–0.5%
0.01–0.5%
0.324%
0.263%
Mo
0.005–0.05%
0.05–0.5%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Sn
0.005–0.05%
0.01–0.1%
Not Detected
Not Detected
As
0.005–0.05%
0.05–0.5%
Not Detected
Not Detected
V
0.005–0.05%
0.01–0.1%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Co
0.005–0.05%
0.01–0.1%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Sb
0.005–0.05%
0.01–0.5%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Cd
0.001–0.01%
0.01–0.1%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Hg
Trace
0.01–0.1%
Not Detected
Not Detected
Rb
Trace
Trace
0.086%
0.058%
Zr
0.01–0.5%
Trace–0.1%
0.094%
Not Detected
Y
Trace
Trace
0.009%
Not Detected
Ac
—
—
Detected qualitatively
Detected qualitatively
Rh
— (instrumental)
—
Detected qualitatively
Detected qualitatively
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1. Pozzolanic Reaction Signatures
The EDX analysis reveals a clear dominance of Calcium (Ca) and Silicon (Si) in the treated ash,
which are indicative of significant pozzolanic activity. Pozzolanic reactions, which involve the
chemical interaction between ash components (mainly silica) and water or calcium hydroxide, are
crucial for forming calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H). This phase is the primary binder in concrete,
contributing to its strength and durability.
• Calcium (Ca, 78.116 and 74.372% wt%): The high concentration of calcium suggests that
additives have been used during the treatment process, optimizing the alkalinity of the ash
to enhance pozzolanic activity. The elevated levels of calcium are critical for forming the
C-S-H gel, which is the binding agent that imparts structural integrity to materials made
with ash.
• Silicon (Si, 4.702 and 3.327 wt%): Silicon, present in notable quantities, plays a significant
role in the formation of the pozzolanic C-S-H phase. The silicon content is consistent with
its involvement in the creation of durable silicate bonds within the concrete matrix.
• Sulfur (S, 0.345 and 0.717wt%) and Potassium (K, 0.374 and 0.327 wt%): The presence
of sulfur and potassium suggests the formation of sulfate and alkali phases, which can
contribute to the early-stage hydration of cementitious materials. These elements can play
a role in optimizing the initial setting and strength development of the Ashcrete, promoting
the rapid formation of solid structures in the early stages after mixing.
2. Heavy Metal Mineralization
The treatment process of the MSWI ash not only improves its pozzolanic properties but also
effectively stabilizes heavy metals that are typically of environmental concern. The EDX results
reveal that trace levels of several heavy metals—Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), and
Chromium (Cr)—are present, but their concentrations are low and within safe limits. These metals
are successfully immobilized through chemical and physical processes that incorporate them into
stable mineral matrices as it is demonstrated Table 2 USEPA leaching test as USEPA SW-846
Test Method 1311: Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure.
• Zinc (Zn, 0.775 and 0.680 wt%): Zinc is typically stabilized in silicate or phosphate forms,
such as Zn₂SiO₄, making it less likely to leach into the environment. The presence of zinc
in these stable forms suggests that it has been incorporated into the amorphous matrix or
crystalline phases, reducing its mobility and making the material more environmentally
friendly.
• Lead (Pb, 0.3298 and 0.203 wt%) and Copper (Cu, 0.242 and 1.028 wt%): Both lead and
copper, which are often hazardous in their free form, are stabilized through mineralization,
likely forming lead phosphate compounds (Pb₃(PO₄)₂) or copper silicates. This
immobilization ensures that these toxic metals cannot migrate into surrounding soils or
groundwater.
• Chromium (Cr, 0.139 and 0.144 wt%): Chromium, often a contaminant in MSWI ash, is
likely incorporated into stable silicate phases or encapsulated in other mineral forms. The
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presence of chromium at trace levels further supports the effectiveness of the treatment in
reducing environmental hazards.
• Iron (Fe, 9.555 and 8.461wt%) and Titanium (Ti, 4.887 and 10.276 wt%): These elements
form stable oxides such as Fe₃O₄ (magnetite) and TiO₂ (rutile), which are known for their
strength and resistance to weathering. Their presence contributes to the overall stability of
the treated ash, further enhancing its structural properties and contaminant retention.
Table 2. SW-846 Test Method 1311: Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure — Leaching Test
Metal
Result
(mg/L)
Reporting Limit
(mg/L)
Regulatory Limit (40 CFR
261.24) (mg/L)
Method
Chromium
<1.0
1.0
5.0
1311/6020
Arsenic
<1.0
1.0
5.0
1311/6020
Selenium
<0.2
0.2
1.0
1311/6020
Silver
<1.0
1.0
5.0
1311/6020
Cadmium
<0.2
0.2
1.0
1311/6020
Barium
<20
20
100
1311/6020
Mercury
<0.04
0.04
0.2
1311/6020
Lead
<1.0
1.0
5.0
1311/6020
3. Indicators of Amorphous Phase Formation
The EDX analysis provides additional evidence of the formation of amorphous phases within the
treated ash, which are crucial for its durability and stability. The synergy between Silicon (Si) and
Calcium (Ca) in the sample suggests that a vitrification process occurred during the thermal
treatment of the ash.
• Silica (Si, 4.702 and 3.327wt%) and Calcium (Ca, 78.116 and 74.372%wt%): The high
ratio of silicon to calcium is indicative of partial vitrification, where these elements
combine to form a glassy, amorphous matrix. The amorphous phase traps heavy metals
and other contaminants within a stable, non-reactive structure, reducing their potential for
leaching and enhancing the long-term durability of the material.
• Zirconium (Zr, 0.094 and non-detected wt%) and Strontium (Sr, 0.324 and 0.263wt%):
These trace elements are typically associated with glass-forming additives or natural ash
components. Their presence further supports the development of a stable amorphous phase,
which not only enhances the overall durability of the material but also helps to immobilize
contaminants like lead and zinc.
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4. Carbonation and Environmental Stability
While the EDX technique cannot directly measure carbon due to its low atomic number, the high
calcium content in the ash suggests potential carbonation during the curing process. When calcium
oxide (CaO) reacts with carbon dioxide (CO₂), it forms Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃), which is a
stable and less soluble compound. This reaction is beneficial as it reduces the pH of the material,
further limiting the mobility of heavy metals and enhancing the material's environmental stability.
Conclusion
The EDX results from the treated MSWI ash provide compelling evidence of significant atomic-
level transformations. These changes are essential for the conversion of waste ash into a valuable,
stable construction material. Key findings include:
• Pozzolanic reactions that generate binding phases critical for the strength of Ashcrete.
• Heavy metal mineralization, which immobilizes toxic elements, making the material safe
for environmental use.
• The formation of amorphous phases, which enhance durability and trap contaminants.
• Potential carbonation, which stabilizes the material and reduces the mobility of harmful
substances.
Together, these atomic-level transformations validate the effectiveness of the treatment process
and demonstrate its ability to convert hazardous waste into a stable, environmentally compliant
material suitable for use in construction applications.
5.4 Elimination of Ash Characteristics Post-Transformation
The transformation process applied to Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash (MSWIBA)
and Fly Ash (MSWIFA) leads to the complete elimination of the material’s original ash
characteristics. Through a combination of chemical, mineralogical, and physical changes at the
atomic and molecular levels, the treated material is fundamentally different from untreated ash,
both in structure and behavior.
5.4.1 Pre-Transformation Characteristics of MSWI Ash
MSWIBA and MSWIFA possess a set of problematic characteristics that define their classification
as waste materials:
• Chemical Instability:
High concentrations of soluble salts (chlorides, sulfates) and heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr,
Cd, etc.) contribute to environmental leaching risks.
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• High Porosity and Water Absorption:
Ash particles typically have an irregular, porous structure, leading to high water absorption
rates and low mechanical integrity.
• Amorphous and Reactive Phases:
Significant quantities of amorphous glassy phases and free lime (CaO) can result in
unwanted reactions like swelling or cracking when reused.
• Inconsistent Particle Size Distribution:
Ash often includes a mix of fine powders and coarse particles, complicating its processing
and reuse.
• Low Mechanical Strength:
Due to poor packing density and weak bonding between particles, untreated ash lacks the
strength needed for structural applications.
• Visual and Textural Indicators:
Untreated ash is typically gray to black in color, with a dusty, fragmented texture and often
a recognizable odor associated with residual organics.
5.4.2 Post-Transformation Characteristics
Following the transformation process, the resulting material exhibits none of the defining traits
of ash. Instead, it presents properties characteristic of a new, engineered material:
a) Chemical Stabilization
• Heavy metals and salts are chemically immobilized within stable mineral structures such
as calcium silicate hydrates (C-S-H), aluminosilicates, and spinel phases.
• Soluble species that could leach into the environment are either consumed during
reactions or locked into insoluble forms.
• Standardized leaching tests (TCLP,) consistently show concentrations of regulated
contaminants well below hazardous waste thresholds.
b) Mineralogical Transformation
• Original mineral phases like free lime, quartz, and amorphous glass are consumed or
encapsulated.
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• New mineral assemblages are formed, often dominated by durable phases like C-S-H,
tobermorite-like structures, and stable aluminosilicate matrices.
• XRD analysis shows the disappearance of unstable ash phases and the emergence of a
more crystalline and coherent mineral profile.
c) Structural Densification
• Porosity is dramatically reduced, leading to significantly lower water absorption and
permeability.
• The microstructure becomes dense and cohesive, similar to that of engineered concrete
materials or sintered ceramics.
• This densification enhances compressive strength, flexural strength, and long-term
durability.
d) Loss of Visual and Physical Identity
• The appearance changes from loose, fragmented, dusty gray/black material to a
homogenous, dense, stone-like or concrete-like form.
• Surface texture, color, and weight all shift, reflecting the densification and chemical
evolution of the material.
e) Mechanical Performance Enhancement
• Compressive strength values often reach or surpass those of conventional green concrete
mixes (e.g., >30 MPa depending on the formulation).
• Resistance to environmental factors like freeze-thaw cycles, sulfate attack, and
carbonation improves markedly.
f) Environmental Neutralization
• Potential for acid generation (via sulfates) is reduced or eliminated.
• Chloride content is bound or reduced to levels safe for reinforcing steel protection.
• No significant odor or volatile organic emissions are observed post-treatment.
5.4.3 Mechanisms of Transformation
The elimination of ash characteristics is achieved through multiple, interacting mechanisms:
• Pozzolanic Reactions:
Silica, alumina, and calcium-rich phases react with added activators or water to form
strong cementitious compounds.
• Chemical Fixation:
Heavy metals react to form insoluble hydroxides, silicates, or other stable phases.
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• Molecular Rearrangement:
Atomic-level rearrangements result in new binding networks that fundamentally differ
from the chaotic, fragmented structure of ash.
5.4.4 Significance of Ash Elimination
The complete elimination of ash characteristics has profound implications:
• Regulatory Compliance:
The transformed material can be classified as non-hazardous or inert, facilitating its legal
and safe reuse.
• Circular Economy Advancement:
The material is diverted from landfills and reintegrated into the economy as a valuable
product.
• Reduction of Environmental Liability:
Long-term environmental risks associated with ash disposal are eliminated.
• Creation of High-Value Products:
The material can be used in a wide range of applications from Infrastructure & Civil
Engineering to Construction Materials, Environmental & Remediation Applications,
Public Works & Municipal Applications, Industrial & Commercial Use, Emerging or
Specialized Applications, Radiation Shielding Material, Embarkments, and Military or
Emergency Infrastructure
• Public Perception Improvement:
End-users and regulators recognize the transformed material as a safe, durable, and
environmentally friendly resource, not a waste derivative.
5.5 End Product Properties and Performance Metrics
The end product derived from the treatment of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration (MSWI) ash,
specifically Ashcrete, exhibits a variety of properties that ensure its functional, mechanical, and
environmental benefits for construction and infrastructure applications. These properties meet
rigorous performance metrics to make the product viable as a sustainable material. The following
expanded properties and performance metrics cover key aspects of the material’s behavior,
performance, and sustainability depending on the specific end material.
1. Sustainability and Waste Reduction: Transforming MSWI Ash into a Valuable
Construction Resource
Long Island generates approximately 430,000 tons of Municipal Solid Waste Incineration (MSWI)
ash annually. Currently, the dedicated ash landfills on Long Island are nearing full capacity and
are expected to close in the near future. This presents a critical challenge: if MSWI ash is not
recycled and beneficially reused in situ, it will need to be transported off Long Island. Such
transportation significantly increases the risk of environmental catastrophes, including potential
spills during transit, and will substantially elevate the costs of ash management. Moreover, New
York State's available ash landfills are themselves rapidly reaching capacity, meaning that finding
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disposal options elsewhere will become increasingly difficult, expensive, and environmentally
unsound.
An environmentally responsible and safe alternative is urgently needed to address this impending
crisis. Recycling MSWI ash into construction materials offers a powerful solution that advances
sustainability and waste reduction goals.
Definition:
This metric focuses on the material’s contribution to reducing waste and supporting a circular
economy by incorporating industrial by-products such as MSWI ash into new, high-performance
construction materials.
Metric:
• Percentage of MSWI ash incorporated into the construction mix =100% MSWI Ash in
mix design.
• Reduction in landfill use and decrease in environmental and economic costs associated
with ash disposal.
Target:
The final product should aim to incorporate 100% MSWI ash, effectively transforming a waste
stream into a valuable construction resource. This approach will significantly reduce landfill
usage, lower carbon footprints associated with waste transportation, and promote sustainable,
resilient construction practices.
Testing Methodology:
• Measure the volume of MSWI ash diverted from landfills.
• Quantify the reduction in resource extraction and environmental impacts by replacing
virgin materials with recycled ash.
• Lifecycle assessment (LCA) tools can also be used to evaluate the overall environmental
benefits of incorporating MSWI ash.
Significance:
Maximizing the use of MSWI ash as a construction material:
• Reduces environmental impacts linked to landfill usage and resource extraction.
• Strengthens sustainability initiatives by promoting waste-derived material applications.
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• Supports a circular economy where waste is transformed into new resources rather than
discarded.
• Mitigates risks associated with the transport and long-distance disposal of ash, thereby
protecting local communities and ecosystems.
2. Compressive Strength
• Definition: Compressive strength refers to the material's ability to resist axial forces that
attempt to crush or compact it. It is one of the most critical metrics for any concrete-like
material because it directly relates to the material's structural integrity under load-bearing
conditions, if we are using MSWI Ash to make blocks.
• Metric: The compressive strength is typically expressed in megapascals (MPa), indicating
how much load the material can bear per unit area before failure.
• Target: For typical structural applications, Ashcrete should achieve compressive strengths
that are comparable to or exceed the strength of conventional concrete, which usually
ranges from 20 to 40 MPa.
• Testing Methodology:
o ASTM C39: Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical
Concrete Specimens.
o Curing Time: Strength should be measured at several intervals, such as 7, 28, and
90 days, to understand the rate at which the material gains strength.
• Significance: High compressive strength ensures the material can be used in load-bearing
applications such as structural foundations, beams, and other infrastructure components.
3. Impermeability
• Definition: Impermeability refers to the resistance of the material to the penetration of
water, which is crucial for its durability, especially in environments subject to moisture or
chemical exposure.
• Metric: This is usually quantified through water absorption and chloride permeability tests.
• Target: Achieve water absorption of less than 5% by mass, with the objective of producing
a highly impermeable material that resists water penetration and prevents the ingress of
harmful agents such as salts, chemicals, and contaminants.
• Testing Methodology:
o ASTM C642: Standard Test Method for Density, Absorption, and Voids in
Hardened Concrete.
o ASTM C1202: Standard Test Method for Rapid Chloride Permeability Test, which
measures the material’s resistance to chloride ion penetration.
• Significance: Low permeability is particularly important for materials used in harsh
environments such as coastal areas or industrial settings, where exposure to water or
chemicals can lead to premature material degradation.
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4. Durability
• Definition: Durability refers to the material’s ability to withstand environmental conditions
and continue to perform over time without degradation.
• Metric: Durability is assessed based on resistance to freeze-thaw cycles, chemical attack
(such as sulfate attack), and wear over time.
• Target: Ashcrete must demonstrate durability comparable to or better than traditional
concrete. This includes resistance to cracking, chipping, and degradation caused by
weathering, chemical exposure, and physical stress.
• Testing Methodology:
o ASTM C666: Standard Test Method for Resistance of Concrete to Rapid Freezing
and Thawing.
o ASTM C1293: Standard Test Method for Concrete Performance under Sulfate
Exposure, assessing long-term resistance to sulfate attack.
o Accelerated Aging Tests: These tests simulate long-term environmental conditions
to assess the material’s performance over decades of exposure.
• Significance: Durability ensures that ashcrete will retain its mechanical properties and
structural integrity over the lifespan of a project, especially in areas exposed to extreme
weather, high traffic, or industrial environments.
5. Shrinkage and Expansion
• Definition: Shrinkage refers to the reduction in volume of the material as it dries, while
expansion is an increase in volume due to chemical reactions, such as alkali-silica reactions.
• Metric: Shrinkage should be minimized to prevent cracking, while any expansion must be
carefully controlled to prevent structural failure.
• Target: Shrinkage should be less than 0.04% to ensure minimal cracking during curing and
drying. Expansion due to chemical reactions should be controlled to avoid detrimental
impacts on structural performance.
• Testing Methodology:
o ASTM C157: Standard Test Method for Length Change of Hardened Hydraulic-
Cement Mortar and Concrete.
• Significance: Control of shrinkage and expansion is critical for maintaining the material’s
long-term structural integrity, particularly in large-scale infrastructure projects like bridges
or highways, where uniformity and crack prevention are crucial.
6. Carbon Sequestration Capacity
• Definition: Carbon sequestration refers to the ability of the material to absorb and
permanently store carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, thus contributing to carbon
reduction efforts.
• Metric: The amount of CO2 absorbed per unit mass or volume of Ashcrete is measured
over time.
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• Target: Achieve a measurable net reduction in atmospheric CO2 through the carbonation
process, contributing to the material’s sustainability credentials. This could potentially
offset part of the carbon footprint generated during the manufacturing of the Ashcrete.
• Testing Methodology:
o Measure CO2 uptake over time using gravimetric methods or Infrared Gas
Analyzers (IRGA).
• Significance: Carbon sequestration is particularly important for reducing the
environmental impact of construction activities, positioning Ashcrete as a "green"
alternative to conventional concrete, which contributes to carbon emissions during its
production.
7. Environmental Impact
• Definition: The environmental impact assesses the material’s entire life cycle, including
raw material sourcing, production, transportation, use, and end-of-life disposal or recycling.
• Metric: Key indicators include embodied carbon, energy consumption, water usage, and
waste generation.
• Target: Minimize the environmental impact through efficient use of resources, energy, and
waste products, while maximizing the recycling potential of MSWI ash.
• Testing Methodology:
o Conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to quantify the environmental footprint,
including energy consumption, emissions, and resource use. Use industry-standard
databases and protocols (e.g., ISO 14044) for LCA.
• Significance: Reducing the environmental impact of construction materials is vital in
achieving sustainability goals, aligning with green building certifications, and contributing
to a circular economy.
8. Workability
• Definition: Workability refers to how easily the material can be mixed, transported, placed,
and finished during construction processes.
• Metric: This includes the ease of mixing, handling, and placing the material in molds or
forms without excessive effort or segregation.
• Target: The workability of Ashcrete should be comparable to traditional concrete, allowing
it to be used in standard construction equipment and processes.
• Testing Methodology:
o Slump Test (ASTM C143): To assess the consistency and flow of the mix.
o Flow Table Test (ASTM C1437): To evaluate the flowability of the material when
placed in forms.
• Significance: Adequate workability is essential for ensuring ease of use in construction,
reducing labor costs and material wastage during placement.
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9. Thermal Conductivity
• Definition: Thermal conductivity is a measure of the material’s ability to conduct heat. It
plays a key role in determining the insulation properties of Ashcrete.
• Metric: Expressed in watts per meter kelvin (W/m·K), it reflects how much heat flows
through the material.
• Target: Achieve thermal conductivity properties similar to or better than conventional
concrete to optimize the material for energy-efficient buildings, particularly in climates
where temperature regulation is critical.
• Testing Methodology:
o ASTM C518: Standard Test Method for Steady-State Thermal Transmission
Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter.
• Significance: Thermal conductivity is particularly important for using Ashcrete in building
envelopes, where heat retention and insulation are key factors in energy efficiency.
10. Tensile Strength
• Definition: Tensile strength is the maximum stress that a material can withstand while
being stretched or pulled before breaking.
• Metric: Measured in megapascals (MPa) and important for applications where tension or
bending is a concern.
• Target: Achieve tensile strength values that allow for reinforcement to be effectively
integrated into the material, ensuring it is suitable for use in structural applications
requiring flexibility, such as in thin concrete elements or pavements.
• Testing Methodology:
o ASTM C496: Standard Test Method for Splitting Tensile Strength of Cylindrical
Concrete Specimens.
• Significance: Tensile strength is critical for ensuring that the material can handle bending
forces without cracking or failure, which is especially important for pavement or pre-cast
elements.
6. Possible Applications and End Uses of Transformed Material
The innovative transformation of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) ash into a stable,
high-performance material opens the door to a wide range of applications across infrastructure,
environmental remediation, public works, and emerging green technologies. The resulting
material is not simply a treated residue—it is a newly engineered product with mechanical,
chemical, and environmental performance characteristics that meet or exceed those of traditional
building and civil engineering materials.
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6.1 Infrastructure & Civil Engineering
1. Road Base and Subbase
• Foundation layers under highways, asphalt roads, and access roads, offering excellent
load-bearing properties.
• Reduces demand for virgin aggregates.
2. Asphalt Pavement Filler or Modifier
• Enhances structural performance and lifespan when blended with bitumen.
• Suitable for high-traffic urban zones.
3. Sidewalks and Walkways
• Molded into slabs or poured-in-place, offering formability, weather resistance, and
durability.
4. Parking Lots and Industrial Pavement
• Supports heavy machinery, resisting abrasion and structural fatigue.
5. Building Foundation Fill
• Used beneath slabs and footings as compactable, stable fill.
6. Backfill for Trenches and Utility Installations
• Non-reactive, compactable material for water, gas, and electrical trenching.
7. Grading and Site Preparation
• Provides elevation control and surface stabilization during construction projects.
6.2 Construction Materials
8. Precast Blocks or Panels
• Custom molds for walls, fences, and sound barriers.
• Fast-curing and form-retentive under varying climates.
9. Modular Building Units
• Lightweight but strong units for modular infrastructure or emergency shelters.
10. Artificial Aggregate Replacement
• Engineered to replace gravel or crushed stone in concrete mixes.
• Reduces mining-related impacts.
11. Roof Tiles, Pavers, and Slabs
• For use in buildings, patios, and urban hardscaping.
• High compressive strength and dimensional stability.
12. Formable Decorative Elements
• Includes curbstones, garden features, and architectural ornaments.
6.3 Environmental & Remediation Applications
13. Sealing Abandoned Wells and Mines
• Highly flowable and impermeable—ideal for long-term sealing and environmental
isolation.
14. Land Reclamation Fill
• Stabilized, non-leaching fill to restore degraded or excavated land.
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15. Riverbank or Coastal Stabilization
• Molded erosion control blocks and revetments that resist wave and current action.
16. Cap or Barrier Material for Landfills
• Used as a final cover system or gas migration barrier.
• Reduces infiltration, odors, and GHG emissions.
17. Permeable Reactive Barriers (PRBs)
• In-situ groundwater treatment for heavy metals or other pollutants.
6.4 Public Works & Municipal Applications
18. Stormwater Infrastructure
• Catch basins, bioswale fill, and filtration components.
• Contributes to flood mitigation and water quality.
19. Reinforced Retaining Walls
• Used in load-bearing, earth-holding systems with integrated drainage.
20. Bike Paths, Greenways, and Trails
• Aesthetic, durable surfacing for recreational and transit infrastructure.
21. Flood Defense Barriers
• Precast or modular blocks for levees, flood walls, and emergency bunding.
6.5 Industrial & Commercial Use
22. Flooring and Heavy-Duty Surfaces in Warehouses
• Resists chemical spill, abrasion, and mechanical loads.
23. Underlay for Railways or Light Transit
• Track ballast substitute, offering vibration absorption and structural support.
24. Bulk Storage Pads for Heavy Equipment
• Surface for heavy industrial equipment and staging areas.
25. Fireproof Panels and Containment Walls
• High thermal resistance makes it ideal for high-risk industrial zones.
6.6 Emerging or Specialized Applications
26. CO₂ Mineralization Matrix
• Acts as a permanent carbon sink by chemically binding CO₂ during curing.
• Aligned with carbon credit frameworks and net-zero initiatives.
27. Radiation Shielding Material
• Dense, customizable barriers for nuclear waste containment or radiation-heavy
environments.
• Promising for DOE, DOD, and healthcare sectors.
28. Embankments
• Used in construction of roads, railways, levees, and earthworks.
• Compactable and erosion-resistant.
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29. Military or Emergency Infrastructure
• Fast-set roads, temporary runways, and deployable shelters in crisis zones.
• Scalable for disaster recovery.
Why This Matters
• No ash remains: This is not just a treatment—it is a chemical transformation. Ash is
converted into a completely new material.
• Zero waste byproducts: 100% of the input material is repurposed. No residue, no
secondary pollution.
• Metal recovery first: Valuable metals can be extracted before transformation, maximizing
circular value.
• Immediate processing: Ash can be treated on-site at WTE facilities, removing the need for
costly storage or monofill transport.
• No leachate or airborne fines: Hydration locks all contaminants. The material is safe, stable,
and ready to use.
• CO₂ sequestration: Adds environmental value beyond just safe disposal.
• Scalable and mobile: The system can be installed in various configurations, adaptable to
local needs and volumes.
A Regional Solution with Global Potential
This technology directly supports the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation’s (NYSDEC) stated goals for ash-related Research, Development, and
Demonstration (RD&D). A demonstration project on Long Island would:
• Address the 400,000 tons of ash produced annually;
• Extend the life of existing monofills;
• Create new green construction material;
• Transform Long Island into a model for circular, zero-waste innovation.
7. Pilot Project Proposal
This pilot project proposes the first-in-region transformation of municipal solid waste incineration
(MSWI) ash into high-performance construction and environmental materials, using a proprietary
technology that eliminates ash hazards and leaves no waste byproducts. The project will be
conducted in Long Island, New York, under the regulatory guidance of the New York State
Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), which has already recommended the
development of a Research, Development & Demonstration (RD&D) initiative to explore
sustainable ash solutions.
This is not a localized project limited to one municipality. Rather, it is envisioned as a regional
demonstration engaging multiple stakeholders, including:
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
• Town of Babylon, which has already granted a permit for ash use and will serve as the
initial testing and demonstration site.
• Town of Brookhaven, a co-owner of the island's landfill infrastructure and a key potential
supplier of MSWI ash and other residual streams such as Construction & Demolition
(C&D) materials.
• Towns associated with Long Island’s other Waste-to-Energy facilities, which collectively
manage approximately 400,000 tons of ash annually.
These partners will allow us to test ash from multiple incinerators and monofills, representing a
diverse and comprehensive ash profile to validate the versatility and scalability of our technology.
The project is supported by a signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) with the National
Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) Appendix D, facilitating advanced scientific analysis and
independent validation. The initiative also aligns with the NYSDEC’s circular economy and zero-
waste strategies, turning ash into usable infrastructure products while simultaneously supporting
carbon capture and mineralization goals.
7.1 Site Selection Criteria
The pilot project will be located based on the following strategic considerations:
• Proximity to Ash Source: The Babylon monofill site ensures minimal transport logistics
and costs, with direct access to stored MSWI combined ash.
• Existing Permitting Framework: The Town of Babylon has provided the necessary permit,
streamlining the project's regulatory pathway.
• Infrastructure Accessibility: Availability of utilities (power, water, transport access)
needed for ash processing and testing.
• Environmental Oversight Capability: Site must allow transparent collaboration with
NYSDEC inspectors and third-party auditors for sampling, monitoring, and reporting.
• Community Engagement Potential: Site location must offer opportunities to engage local
municipalities and demonstrate public benefits such as job creation, circular economy
initiatives, and environmental risk reduction.
Primary Site Recommendation:
→ Babylon Monofill and Adjacent Processing Area, Town of Babylon, Long Island, NY.
7.2 Recommended Partners and Stakeholders
The RD&D project's success will be enhanced by collaborating with key municipalities, regulatory
bodies, research institutions, and industry players. Each brings essential resources, materials,
expertise, or public oversight.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Stakeholder
Role
Town of Babylon
Permit provider, initial ash supplier, municipal oversight for the
Babylon monofill
Town of Brookhaven
Potential ash supplier (Brookhaven landfill), potential supplier
of additional waste streams (e.g., Construction & Demolition
debris) for material testing and product development
Town on Hempstead, Town of
Islip, Town of Huntington
Potential ash suppliers, project partners for expanded RD&D
scope, facilitating access to ash from multiple WTE facilities on
Long Island
NYSDEC (New York State
Department of Environmental
Conservation)
Regulatory authority, environmental oversight, supporter of
RD&D initiative
NREL (National Renewable
Energy Laboratory)
Research collaborator (under NDA), advanced materials testing,
validation of environmental and technical performance
Independent Certified
Laboratories
Third-party testing for leaching, mechanical properties,
environmental safety
Local Construction Companies
Early users of ash-derived construction products (sidewalks,
curbs, base materials) for real-world field performance trials
Public Relations and
Community Engagement Firms
Strategic communications to local communities, education on
project benefits, public acceptance strategies
Academic Advisors (Non-IP-
claiming roles)
Provide scientific support for reports and validations without
infringing on proprietary technology
7.3 Proposed Timeline and Milestones
The project will proceed in five structured phases over an estimated 12-month timeline:
Phase
Milestone
Timeline
Phase 1
Site preparation and equipment installation
Months 1–2
Phase 2
Ash characterization, preliminary small-batch transformation
Months 2–3
Phase 3
Full-scale transformation runs (batch and continuous)
Months 4–7
Phase 4
Product deployment in test projects (e.g., sidewalk panels)
Months 8–10
Phase 5
Comprehensive testing, environmental reporting, final evaluation
Months 11–12
Key Deliverables:
• Interim Reports after Phases 2 and 4
• Final Pilot Project Report (including scientific, environmental, and economic data)
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
7.4 Testing and Evaluation Plan
Comprehensive, third-party-validated testing will form the foundation of the RD&D evaluation:
Material Performance Testing:
• Compressive Strength (ASTM C39)
• Flexural Strength (ASTM C78)
• Durability and Freeze-Thaw Resistance (ASTM C666)
• Abrasion Resistance (ASTM C944)
Environmental Safety Testing:
• TCLP Leaching Test (EPA Method 1311)
• SPLP Leaching Test (EPA Method 1312)
• Heavy Metals Content (ICP-OES/ICP-MS)
• Asbestos, Dioxins, and Furans Screening (as applicable)
Field Performance Testing:
• Settlement monitoring of installed materials (sidewalks, road base)
• Visual inspections, cracking analysis, permeability tests.
Carbon Sequestration Analysis (if carbon mineralization is utilized):
• Quantitative measurement of CO₂ uptake per cubic meter of product.
7.5 Metrics for Success and Reporting Framework
Success will be assessed using clear, measurable criteria:
Metric
Target
Transformation Rate
100% of ash processed into stable material
Compressive Strength
>30 MPa for general construction use
Leachability
All heavy metals below EPA regulatory thresholds
Carbon Sequestration (if applicable)
≥2% weight-based CO₂ capture
Public Infrastructure Trials
Minimum 2 successful field installations
Environmental Compliance
100% compliance with NYSDEC RD&D guidelines
Reporting Framework:
• Quarterly Progress Reports to NYSDEC and other stakeholders
• Community Briefings every six months
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
• Final Pilot Project Report with executive summary, technical annexes, and
recommendations for full-scale deployment
Additional Notes:
• Including Brookhaven broadens the waste material scope, allowing testing of MSWI ash
and C&D debris.
• Including the Towns associated with the other WTE — Town on Hempstead, Town of Islip,
Town of Huntington — plants increase the quantity, variability, and representativeness of
the material — crucial for a future full-scale rollout.
• This expansion strengthens the argument that the project is a regional solution rather than
a single-town experiment, aligning it with New York State’s and the EPA's goals for
sustainable materials management.
8. Environmental, Economic, and Social Benefits
8.1 Elimination of Long-Term Landfilling Needs
The pilot project addresses one of Long Island’s most pressing environmental issues: the
landfilling of municipal solid waste incinerator ash, which has historically required monofills with
long-term environmental monitoring. Our transformative technology chemically stabilizes and
alters the ash at the atomic level, producing a new material that is safe, non-leachable, and usable
in construction. This eliminates the need for long-term landfilling, conserves valuable land, and
significantly reduces the liability associated with legacy waste management practices. This
approach is aligned with modern waste hierarchy principles: reduce, reuse, and repurpose.
8.2 Reduction in Transportation and Disposal Costs
Currently, towns across Long Island are burdened with rising costs associated with hauling ash
off-island due to the closure or near-capacity status of local landfills. These transportation routes
are not only expensive, but also carbon-intensive and risk-prone, especially in the event of
accidents or spills. By implementing ash transformation technology locally, these costs can be
dramatically reduced or eliminated. The treated ash no longer needs to be landfilled—it becomes
a product. Municipalities save on tipping fees, fuel costs, labor, insurance, and regulatory
compliance related to hazardous waste transport.
8.3 Recovery of Valuable Metals
Before or during the ash transformation process, it is possible to extract significant quantities of
ferrous and non-ferrous metals, using well-established sorting and separation technologies. These
metals are currently either lost to landfilling or underutilized. Recovering them at scale reduces
reliance on virgin metal mining, supports the green economy, and provides an immediate financial
return to municipalities or public-private operators. This recovery enhances circular economy
performance and can be reinvested in local waste programs.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
8.4 Emissions Reduction and Climate Impact
The project supports significant environmental gains through emissions reduction at multiple
levels:
• Transportation Emissions: Decreased need for long-haul transport of ash reduces fossil fuel
use and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Carbon Sequestration: The transformation process enables carbon mineralization, where
CO₂ is permanently bound within the final material matrix.
• Landfill Avoidance: Avoiding landfill usage reduces methane generation and prevents the
escape of toxic emissions (e.g., dioxins, furans).
• Air Quality Improvements: Minimizing ash handling and transportation lowers fine
particulate pollution and improves air quality in local communities.
This aligns directly with New York State’s climate goals under the Climate Leadership and
Community Protection Act (CLCPA) and contributes to measurable GHG reduction targets.
8.5 Economic Development and Job Creation on Long Island
Implementing this technology will catalyze a new green materials economy on Long Island:
• Jobs will be created in ash handling, processing, testing, construction, and logistics.
• Treated ash-derived products (such as concrete blocks, pavers, or aggregates) can be sold
or reused locally for municipal projects, infrastructure, or green building initiatives.
• Equipment fabrication, maintenance, and operations open the door to skilled trades and
manufacturing.
• Revenue generated from reduced disposal costs and material sales can be reinvested into
public services or reinvention of municipal infrastructure.
Long Island could become a national model for resource recovery and local economic
revitalization through sustainable waste innovation.
8.6 Contribution to New York State Climate Goals and Zero Waste Agenda
The pilot project directly supports key pillars of New York State’s environmental framework:
• CLCPA Climate Action: Reduction in GHG emissions and support for renewable material
development
• NYSDEC Zero Waste Plan: Elimination of ash from the waste stream and reuse in valuable
applications
• Sustainable Materials Management (SMM): Optimization of materials at every stage of
their lifecycle
• Resilient Infrastructure: Development of durable, climate-resilient construction materials
using what was once considered hazardous waste
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
This technology empowers towns and the state to close the loop on waste, reduce environmental
risk, and meet ambitious sustainability targets without relying on future or unproven solutions.
9. Implementation Strategy
9.1 Immediate Next Steps
To transition from concept to action, the following immediate steps are proposed:
• Site Mobilization and Ash Collection: Initiate coordination with the Town of Babylon and
the Town of Brookhaven to begin safe extraction of legacy and fresh ash from monofill
and incineration sources.
• Bench-Scale Validation: Conduct controlled laboratory trials using representative samples
of bottom ash, fly ash, and blended municipal and construction & demolition (C&D)
materials.
• Environmental and Physical Testing: Begin characterization of materials post-treatment,
including leachability, compressive strength, mineralogy, and metal recovery efficiency.
• Engage Regulatory Agencies: Maintain open communication with NYSDEC, USEPA, and
local permitting bodies to ensure full compliance and documentation of non-hazardous
status of outputs.
• Formalize Stakeholder Engagement: Schedule meetings with town supervisors, regional
planning councils, and utility managers to discuss integration pathways, economic sharing
models, and potential use cases for recovered materials.
9.2 Proposed Policy and Permitting Roadmap
Successful deployment requires proactive policy alignment:
• Update Existing Beneficial Use Determination (BUD): Incorporate new transformation
data and performance metrics into the expanded BUD submitted to NYSDEC.
• Local Zoning and Operational Permits: Work with municipalities to secure necessary
permits for ash processing at identified facilities or staging areas.
• Alignment with State Zero Waste Goals: Propose pilot as a formal component of New
York’s Climate Smart Communities or Circular Economy Innovation programs.
• Designate Material as “Product” not “Waste”: Work with regulatory and legal teams to
establish clear definitions that recognize the transformed ash as a construction-grade
material, not a byproduct.
9.3 Recommendations for Inter-Municipal Coordination
The success of the project depends on collaborative regional action:
• Town Consortium Creation: Propose a formal consortium including the Towns of Babylon,
Brookhaven, Huntington, Hempstead, and Islip (and any town contributing MSW to the
four Long Island WTE facilities).
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
• Shared Data and Testing Facilities: Promote transparent data exchange and shared access
to pilot test results and lab capabilities to minimize duplication of effort.
• Joint Procurement Agreements: Establish a regional procurement strategy for future
equipment, testing, and construction applications using the new materials.
• Unified Messaging: Coordinate public communications and educational outreach to
present a united front on sustainability and innovation.
9.4 Suggested Formation of a Task Force or Steering Committee
A multi-disciplinary Task Force should be established to oversee the pilot:
• Members: Representatives from each participating municipality, NYSDEC, NREL,
academic advisors, and independent environmental consultants.
• Mandate: Provide governance, resolve challenges, track performance, and report publicly
on milestones.
• Subcommittees: May include focus groups on technology, community outreach, financing,
and policy alignment.
• Reporting Schedule: Bi-monthly virtual meetings with quarterly progress reports
distributed to stakeholders and decision-makers.
9.5 Timeline to Regional Rollout
The proposed implementation is phased to ensure risk-managed growth:
• Phase 1 (0–6 months): Bench-scale testing, ash sourcing, regulatory submission,
stakeholder alignment.
• Phase 2 (6–12 months): Field pilot installation, validation of treated products, initial use in
low-risk applications (e.g., sidewalks, non-structural fill).
• Phase 3 (12–24 months): Expansion to multiple municipal ash sources, integration with
C&D waste, upscaling equipment.
• Phase 4 (24+ months): Full regional adoption, commercial production of Ashcrete and
aggregate materials, incorporation into public infrastructure.
10. Risks and Mitigation Strategies
While the proposed ash transformation and pilot implementation offers substantial environmental
and economic advantages, success requires anticipating and proactively managing a range of
potential risks. Below is a comprehensive risk assessment framework and strategies to address
them:
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
10.1 Technical Risks
Potential Risks:
• Variability in ash composition from different incinerators or monofills.
• Unexpected performance issues in transformed materials under real-world conditions.
• Scale-up challenges from bench to field pilot.
Mitigation Strategies:
• Perform extensive baseline characterization on ash from each facility.
• Use adaptable formulation protocols based on ash chemistry profiles.
• Stage scale-up incrementally (bench → field trial → demonstration) with performance
monitoring checkpoints.
• Develop partnerships with certified labs and engineering consultants for validation.
10.2 Regulatory Risks
Potential Risks:
• Delays in approvals for Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) expansion.
• Uncertainty around waste classification (e.g., treated ash vs. product).
• Inconsistent regulatory interpretation across jurisdictions.
Mitigation Strategies:
• Maintain transparent communication and early engagement with NYSDEC and local
permitting bodies.
• Leverage existing BUD frameworks and submit third-party lab data to support safety and
performance claims.
• Consult with legal experts and environmental attorneys to guide classification and
product registration.
• Engage regulatory liaisons from pilot partners (e.g., Town of Babylon, Brookhaven) to
streamline interactions.
10.3 Public Perception and Stakeholder Resistance
Potential Risks:
• Misconceptions about ash toxicity or safety of end products.
• Community resistance to on-site ash processing or use in public infrastructure.
• Lack of awareness about climate and cost benefits.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Mitigation Strategies:
• Launch a coordinated public education campaign with visual materials, community Q&A
events, and social media outreach.
• Include local voices—such as town officials, engineers, and environmental advocates—in
the messaging.
• Publicly demonstrate the safety and durability of transformed products (e.g., sidewalk
installations, park infrastructure).
• Offer site visits and open lab sessions for residents, schools, and journalists.
10.4 Risk Management and Communication Plan
To address all categories of risk in an integrated manner:
• Create a Risk Registry: A centralized tracking tool updated monthly during pilot
implementation.
• Designate a Risk Manager: A point person responsible for identifying emerging issues,
escalating concerns, and activating response protocols.
• Adopt a Transparent Reporting System: Monthly internal updates and quarterly public-
facing reports that summarize project progress, setbacks, and corrective actions taken.
• Build Community Feedback Channels: Establish hotlines, online surveys, and town hall
events to allow public participation and continuous input.
11. Conclusion and Call to Action
11.1 Summary of Urgency and Readiness
New York State faces an immediate and growing challenge: the long-term management of over
400,000 tons of municipal solid waste incineration ash annually, as monofills near capacity and
environmental pressures intensify. The current approach—landfilling ash without value
recovery—is no longer tenable.
Our proven technology offers a ready-to-implement, zero-waste, and carbon-conscious alternative
that transforms ash into safe, durable, high-performance materials for infrastructure and
environmental remediation. With permits in place, NDAs signed, municipal partners engaged,
and strong alignment with NYSDEC RD&D recommendations, this solution is shovel-ready for
pilot implementation.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
11.2 What is Needed from Stakeholders
To launch a successful regional demonstration and realize the full potential of this solution, we
call upon the following actions:
• NYSDEC: Confirm pilot participation and facilitate BUD guidance for expanded
applications.
• Governor’s Office: Endorse the initiative as a model of circular economy and clean-tech
leadership.
• Municipalities (e.g., Town of Babylon, Brookhaven, Islip, Huntington, Hempstead):
Provide ash access, support siting, and engage in co-development.
• Private and Public Infrastructure Developers: Commit to using transformed products in
real-world pilot sites (e.g., sidewalks, roads, fill).
• Academic and National Labs (e.g., NREL): Support ongoing evaluation, life-cycle
analysis, and environmental performance monitoring.
• Investors and Grant Programs: Fund the pilot and help scale the technology for regional
rollout.
11.3 Invitation to Collaborate and Transform Ash into Opportunity
This is not just a waste management project—it is an opportunity to lead the nation in ash
transformation, climate-smart infrastructure, and zero-waste innovation.
We invite public agencies, local governments, environmental leaders, and forward-thinking
investors to join us in building a cleaner, more resilient New York. Together, we can permanently
eliminate incinerator ash from the waste stream, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create
sustainable building materials that serve our communities for generations.
12. Appendices
Appendix A. Technical Data Sheets and Lab Results
• Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) analyses showing elemental and
mineralogical transformation of ash into new stable phases. Exhibits 1 and 2 .
Appendix B. Regulatory Analysis Summary
• Summary of NYSDEC Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) applications submitted
(2018 and 2023).
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
In June 2018, a Beneficial Use Determination (BUD) application was submitted to the New York
State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to evaluate the reuse of municipal
solid waste incineration (MSWI) combined ash for the fabrication of concrete structures. This
initial submission proposed the integration of both bottom ash and fly ash—after treatment—into
concrete products such as blocks, slabs, and structural components, offering an environmentally
sound alternative to landfilling.
In 2023, a significantly expanded BUD application was submitted. This updated application
reflected major technological advancements in the ash transformation process, demonstrating that
the treated ash undergoes a complete material transformation at the atomic level, resulting in a new
material with no leachable contaminants or recognizable ash residue. The 2023 BUD application
included a broader range of end uses, including:
• Structural concrete
• Artificial aggregates
• Road base and subbase
• Landfill capping material
• Fill for sealing abandoned wells and mines
This second application was designed to address the needs of all four WTE plants operating on
Long Island, where more than 400,000 tons of ash are generated annually, and focused on offering
sustainable, scalable alternatives to traditional monofill disposal.
Both BUD submissions underscore the commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation,
and alignment with NYSDEC’s goals for waste reduction, material reuse, and support of Research,
Development, and Demonstration (RD&D) initiatives.
Overview of U.S. EPA regulations on MSWI ash reuse and how our process
aligns.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies Municipal Solid Waste Incinerator
(MSWI) ash under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Subtitle D, which
governs non-hazardous solid waste. While bottom ash is generally deemed non-hazardous, fly
ash—due to its higher concentration of heavy metals and soluble salts—is subject to stricter
handling requirements and often requires further treatment to prevent leaching.
The EPA encourages beneficial reuse of incinerator ash when human health and the environment
are not compromised, and when materials meet the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure
(TCLP) thresholds. Our process fully aligns with this guidance by:
• Chemically stabilizing both bottom and fly ash.
• Immobilizing heavy metals and soluble components through proprietary treatment.
• Transforming the ash into a new, non-leaching, formable material that meets or exceeds
EPA reuse standards.
• Preventing the generation of hazardous dust or leachate during and after transformation.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
By ensuring full compliance with RCRA and EPA recommendations, our technology eliminates
the regulatory barriers often associated with MSWI ash reuse and meets the expectations for public
health and environmental protection.
• Analysis of applicable RD&D policy pathways under New York State
environmental law.
Under New York State Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) and the implementing regulations
of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), innovative waste
management and reuse projects may be pursued through Research, Development, and
Demonstration (RD&D) permits. These permits provide a structured regulatory framework for:
• Pilot-scale evaluation of novel materials or technologies.
• Controlled field deployment of alternative treatment systems.
• Data collection to support future full-scale permitting and approval.
Our ash transformation technology qualifies under this pathway because it:
• Involves the reuse of MSWI combined ash in a way that has not been previously
demonstrated in the state.
• Presents no residual ash or waste byproduct, aligning with the state’s long-term waste
reduction objectives.
• Seeks to validate performance in infrastructure and environmental applications under
real-world conditions.
We are prepared to work in full collaboration with NYSDEC to meet all data, sampling, and
reporting requirements during the RD&D phase. Our approach is engineered to support future
expansion to full-scale Beneficial Use Determinations (BUDs) based on proven results.
Notes on international best practices (EU/Japan) regarding ash transformation and
valorization.
Internationally, Europe and Japan have led the way in the development and implementation of
advanced ash reuse strategies:
• In the European Union, particularly in Germany, the Netherlands, and Denmark,
incinerator bottom ash is commonly used in road construction, aggregate replacement, and
concrete production, supported by strict environmental leaching criteria (e.g., Dutch Soil
Quality Decree). Technologies that stabilize or mineralize ash for safe reuse are widely
accepted as part of a circular economy strategy.
• In Japan, over 90% of incinerator ash is reused through a combination of thermal, chemical,
and mechanical treatments, often resulting in the production of artificial aggregates, glass
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
ceramics, and structural materials. Long-standing policies promote zero-waste initiatives
and valorization of ash in construction.
Our process builds upon these international standards and moves one step further by:
• Transforming ash into a new material rather than simply stabilizing it.
• Achieving complete mineralization at ambient temperature without combustion or high-
energy input.
• Creating a closed-loop material cycle with applications in infrastructure, environmental
remediation, and carbon capture.
By adopting global best practices and exceeding current U.S. norms, our technology positions
New York State—and potentially the entire U.S.—as a global leader in MSWI ash valorization.
Appendix C. Visuals: Process Diagrams, Material Flows, Before/After
Micrographs
• Flowchart of ash treatment and transformation process (from WTE plant to final
product). Diagram 1
• Visual MSWI Ash Pre-treatment material under microscope (leachate hydration and
small particles binding) Figure 2
• Visual transformed material under microscope final product Figure 3.
Appendix D. NDA NREL
• NDA with National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Ashcrete Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX)
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Diagram 1 Flowchart of ash treatment and transformation process (from WTE plant to final
product)
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Figure 1 Visualization Ashcrete
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Figure 2. Visual MSWI Ash Pre-treatment material (leachate chemically bound and small particles
binding).
Figure 3. Visual MSWI Ash Pre-treatment material under microscope (leachate hydration and
small particles binding).
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
Figure 4. Visual Flowable Ready for Molding Final Product
Figure 5 Visual Final Product Under the Microscope.
APENDIX D. Non-Disclosure Agreement NREL
Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
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Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
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Ashcrete Technologies R&D Center Joane Duque Ph.D.
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