Cenosphere are hollow ceramic microspheres found in fly ash, a natural by-product of coal combustion during the genernation of electric power. Small and hollow, microsphere are used as filler or functional extenders in the manufacture of plastics, paints, resins; light weight aggregates for cement, ceramics and other construction products. Because cenospheres often replace mined materials, they can significantly lower production costs. Simultaneously, cenospheres can benefit finished product properties by increasing durability and better sound proofing. Too, as material recycled from flyash, cenospheres are environmentally friendly and help to preserve natural virgin fillers.

As a portion of the flyash generated in coal combustion, cenospheres are recycled from the waste stream. They are made up of inert silica, iron and alumina. Cnospheres have a size range from 1 to 300 microns with an average compressive strength of 3000+psi…Colours range from white to dark gray. They are also referred to as microspheres, hollow spheres, hollow ceramic microspheres, microballons, or glass beads.

The spherical shape of cenospheres improves flowability in most applications and provides a more even distribution of the filler material. The natural properties of cenospheres make it possible to use them either in dry or wet slurry form. Cenospheres are easy to handle and provide a low surface area-to-volume ratio. Due to their inert properties, they are not affected by solvents, water, acids, or alkalis, cenospheres are75%lighter than minerals currently used as a filler .

The mainly advantages of using cenospheres including:

1.       Reduced raw materials cost

2.       Improved flowability

3.       Reduced resin demand

4.       Improved insulation values

5.       Reduced end product weight

6.       Resistant to resin absorption

Chemical Properties

Silica -65%

Alumina 25%-35%

Iron Oxide 1%-5%

Titania -1.5%

 

 

Physical Properties

 

Size 10-350microns

PH in water 6.0-8.0

Density 23-28lbs.per cubic ft.

Gravity 0.6-0.8

Strength 3000-5000lbs,per square in.

Softening Point 1800 degreesF

Shape Spherical

Color Gray-Light Gray-Off White