Innovation and Technology Fund Awarded Project

Innovation and Technology Fund Awarded Project

From Waste to Shield: High-value Utilization of Incineration Ash and C&D Waste in Sustainable Radiation-shielding Concrete

Name of PC: Prof. Shu-Chien Hsu, Associate Professor of CEE
Amount Awarded: HK$800,000
Funding Programme: Innovation and Technology Support Programme (ITSP)

In response to the pressing challenges of managing incineration residues (IBA/IFA) and construction waste in Hong Kong, the research project proposes an innovative "detoxification-to-valorisation" strategy through geopolymer-based stabilisation and functional activation. The research aims to effectively immobilise hazardous heavy metals while leveraging the naturally occurring high-atomic-number elements (such as Pb, Fe, and Ni) within the waste as functional components for radiation shielding. By developing a sustainable X-ray shielding recycled concrete for medical infrastructure, this study seeks to pioneer a full-volume, high-value recycling solution that supports Hong Kong’s transition towards green construction and a circular economy.
 
https://www.polyu.edu.hk/cee/news-and-events/news/2026/20260414_news/