Utilization of Agricultural wastes as biochar’s and pozzolanic ashes in cementitious blends

Abstract

Agricultural activities tend to produce a lot of waste in their operation. These wastes, if not properly disposed of, cause environmental pollution. This agricultural waste (biomass) can be utilized into valuable materials like rice husk ash (RHA) and biochar. Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is the primary binder in standard cementitious mixes and a significant contributor to CO2 emissions. This study investigates the utilization of RHA and biochar as supplementary cementitious materials to minimize the need for OPC. This research adopts pyrolysis and controlled combustion to convert rich husk (agricultural waste) to produce RHA and biochar. In order to establish RHA and Biochar's suitability as SCM, chemical composition techniques (X-Ray Diffraction analysis, X-Ray Fluorescence analysis, and Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity test) and mechanical performance testing (compressive strength tests of various mortar mixes with varied percentages (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%) replacement of RHA and Biochar by weight of cement) were conducted. The findings showcased that partially replacing OPC with RHA and biochar in cementitious mixes improves mechanical performance and durability while maintaining a lower carbon footprint. Utilization of agricultural waste in cementitious materials encourages efficient circular economy principles as well as environmentally sustainable infrastructure. This study highlights how using bio renewable resources can lead to sustainable development.