Mechanical and Durability Properties of Geopolymer Concrete Using Agricultural Waste

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has accelerated research into alternatives to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), which is associated with high energy consumption and significant carbon dioxide emissions. Geopolymer concrete (GPC), synthesized from aluminosilicate-rich industrial or agricultural by-products, has emerged as a promising eco-friendly substitute. This study investigates the mechanical and durability properties of geopolymer concrete incorporating agricultural wastes such as rice husk ash, sugarcane bagasse ash, and corn cob ash as partial replacements for conventional binders. Experimental work focuses on evaluating compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength at different curing ages, along with durability performance through tests on water absorption, acid resistance, chloride penetration, and sulfate attack. Microstructural analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) is also carried out to establish the relationship between the material composition and performance. The findings are expected to demonstrate that agricultural waste-based geopolymer concretes not only exhibit satisfactory mechanical strength but also improved durability, making them suitable for sustainable infrastructure development. This research contributes to waste valorization, resource conservation, and the reduction of the environmental footprint of the construction industry.