Volcanic Ashes

Volcanic ashes are fragments of solid rock expelled during a volcanic eruption. Volcanic ashes are composed of small particles, mostly less than 2mm, created by the fragmentation of magma and volcanic rocks. They are formed when the molten material is ejected from the volcano and rapidly cooled in the atmosphere. Volcanic ashes are significant in that they can cause destruction to human settlements and disrupt air travel, but they also have beneficial uses. Volcanic ashes can be used for fertilizers, for manufacturing of abrasive tools, and for maintenance and construction of roads. They can also be used for production of bricks, tiles, and other construction materials. As a result, volcanic ashes are important for both destruction and construction.