Frequent Questions

Coal Combustion
Products Partnership

1. What are CCPs?

Coal combustion products (CCPs) are materials produced primarily from the combustion of coal as a part of the coal-fired power plant operating processes. CCPs include the following materials: fly ash, bottom ash, boiler slag, flue gas desulfurization (FGD) material, and other types of material such as fluidized bed combustion ash, cenospheres, and scrubber residues. The characteristics and physical properties of CCPs vary. In general, the size, shape, and chemical composition of these materials determines their beneficial reuse as a component of building materials or as a replacement to other virgin materials such as sand, gravel, or gypsum. For more information, visit About Coal Combustion Products.

2. What can CCPs be used for?

CCPs are used in multiple applications and related products including, but not limited to, Portland cement concrete, autoclaved aerated concrete, structural fill, roofing granules, blasting grit, and wallboard. For more information, visit Using CCPs.

3. What are the benefits of using CCPs?

Proper use of CCPs in building applications can yield environmental, economic, and product performance benefits. Using CCPs in an environmentally safe manner saves virgin resources and reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, it helps reduce the need for landfill space and new landfills. The use of CCPs also makes good economic sense since they are often less costly than the materials they replace. For more information, visit Benefits of Using CCPs.

4. Where can I find CCP building materials?

For a listing of CCP-containing products and their manufacturers, refer to the Buyer's Guide to Coal Ash-Containing Products . Please note, EPA does not endorse specific products.

5. What are the environmental risks of using CCPs?

Studies and research conducted or supported by EPA, Electric Power and Research Institute (EPRI), government agencies, and universities indicates that the beneficial uses of CCPs have not been shown to present significant risks to human health or the environment. In most cases, however, the way that CCPs are used, the engineering requirements for that use, and the handling and management methods applied minimizes risk of exposure. However, as with many other common substances, precautions and sound management practices should be applied when using coal combustion products. For more information, visit Environmental and Health Information.

6. What standards apply to CCP use?

The use of CCPs is often controlled by state regulations and guidelines, which are normally issued by state transportation, natural resource, or environmental departments. Additionally, there are a number of industry organizations that issue technical standards or guidelines for the use of CCPs. For more information, visit Guidance Resources.