Enhancing Sustainability of Concrete by Using Agriculture Waste as Rise Husk Ash and Bagasse Ash as Partial Replacement of Cement

Abstract

The increasing environmental concerns associated with the construction industry have spurred a growing interest in the use of agricultural waste materials as sustainable alternatives in building materials. This study investigates the potential of rice husk ash (RHA) and bagasse ash (BA) as partial replacements for cement in M30 grade concrete. The primary objective is to assess the impact of these agricultural by-products on the mechanical properties and durability of concrete, thereby promoting sustainable construction practices.

To maintain consistency and ensure focused analysis, a single mix design (M30) is utilized throughout the research. Cement is partially replaced by a combination of RHA and BA at varying proportions of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight. The workability of fresh concrete is evaluated through slump tests, while the mechanical performance is examined by conducting compressive strength and tensile strength tests on hardened specimens at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing. Durability is further analyzed using water permeability tests to assess the long-term resistance of concrete in aggressive environments.

The research highlights the pozzolanic activity and filler effects of RHA and BA, which contribute to the enhancement of concrete properties. The detailed investigation aims to determine the optimal replacement levels that improve both mechanical strength and durability without compromising structural performance. Additionally, the incorporation of these agricultural wastes supports environmental sustainability by reducing the dependence on conventional cement and minimizing construction-related pollution.

The outcomes of this study are expected to offer valuable insights into the practical application of agricultural waste in concrete production, paving the way for the development of high-performance, eco-friendly construction materials.