Durability Analysis of Untreated Sugarcane Bagasse Ash for Sustainable Concrete Production

Abstract

Around the world, vast amounts of waste are generated from various agricultural activities. Of this large quantity, only a small portion is recycled, while the rest is often discarded in open areas. This paper explores the potential use of solid waste in concrete, specifically focusing on untreated sugarcane bagasse ash (Ut-SCBA) from the sugarcane industry. The experimental study conducted in this research investigates the durability of concrete mixes incorporating Ut-SCBA as a partial cement substitute at levels of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%. The durability of these blended mixes is assessed through water absorption, water permeability, the rapid chloride penetration test (RCPT), and the half-cell potentiometer test (HCP). The results demonstrate that concrete containing 15% Ut-SCBA as a cement substitute significantly improved durability properties compared to the control mix, attributed to enhanced pozzolanic activity. The results show improved water permeability and water absorption in the blended concrete, with the RCPT and HCP responses of the blended mix outperforming those of the control mix. Thus, Ut-SCBA proves to be a feasible, eco-friendly pozzolanic material for developing sustainable concrete.