火山灰 (huǒshānhuī) means volcanic ash. It is composed of 火山 (volcano) and 灰 (ash/gray). This compound noun is used in scientific, news, and environmental contexts to describe the fine particles ejected during a volcanic eruption.
火山灰飘了很远,连机场都关闭了。
Huǒshānhuī piāo le hěn yuǎn, lián jīchǎng dōu guānbì le.
The volcanic ash drifted very far — even the airport was closed.
大量的火山灰覆盖了周围的农田。
Dàliàng de huǒshānhuī fùgài le zhōuwéi de nóngtián.
A large amount of volcanic ash covered the surrounding farmland.
火山灰对飞机的发动机有很大的危害。
Huǒshānhuī duì fēijī de fādòngjī yǒu hěn dà de wēihài.
Volcanic ash poses a great danger to aircraft engines.