Optimisation of Cement Mortar Performance Through Bagasse Ash as a Sustainable Supplementary Material

Abstract

Bagasse ash, a residue from the processing of sugarcane, has the potential as an environmentally friendly addition material for waste valorisation in the building sector. This study used different amounts of bagasse ash to partially substitute cement to examine the mechanical and durability aspects of cement mortar. The experimental matrix involved substituting the cement with bagasse ash at dosages of 5, 10, 15, and 20%. Using compressive strength, flexural strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), and rapid chloride penetration tests (RCPT), both the durability and mechanical characteristics of the various mixes were studied. The results revealed that a bagasse ash dosage of 15% emerged as the optimum level, demonstrating superior mechanical and durability performance. For measuring compressive strength and UPV, mortar cube specimens measuring 70.6 mm × 70.6 mm × 70.6 mm were cast; prism specimens measuring 40 mm × 40 mm × 160 mm were formed for the assessment of flexural strength; and cylindrical specimens measuring 100 mm in diameter and 200 mm in height were cast for RCPT. The significant improvement in the compressive and flexural strengths demonstrated the beneficial impact of bagasse ash on the mortar's structural integrity. Furthermore, UPV measurements revealed enhanced internal cohesion and homogeneity in the mortar matrix. Moreover, the findings of the RCPT demonstrated a noteworthy decrease in the penetration of chloride ions, highlighting the capacity of bagasse ash to alleviate the risk of corrosion on reinforcement. This study emphasises the importance of using bagasse ash as a sustainable alternative for waste valorisation in cementitious systems. An optimised dosage of 15% enhanced the mechanical and durability properties and contributed to the eco-friendly disposal of agricultural waste. These findings support the adoption of bagasse ash as a viable supplementary material to promote environmental sustainability and improve the performance of construction materials. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.