International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 02 | Feb 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
"An Experimental Study on Partial Replacement of Cement by RHA and Sand by Rice Husk.” Maulya K T1, Hemantha K M2, Sinchana M D3, Neha P4, Manjunath H S5 1,2,3,4 Students, Department of Civil Engineering Rajeev institute of Technology, Hassan.
5 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering Rajeev institute of Technology, Hassan.
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Abstract – This study explores the partial replacement of cement with rice husk ash (RHA) and sand with rice husk to address issues related to availability, cost, quality, and pollution. Solid masonry blocks of size 150x150x15 mm, with M25 grade, were produced by replacing 30% of cement with RHA by weight and substituting rice husk for sand at varying percentages (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%). Cubes were prepared for testing after curing in water for 3, 7, and 28 days, with the control group being standard concrete. The tests measured compressive strength and workability (using the slump cone test). The results showed that both workability and strength were slightly better than standard concrete, meeting the limits set by established standards.
research contributes to the development of sustainable concrete solutions that maintain performance standards while reducing environmental harm. By examining the optimal use of these materials, the study supports greener, eco-friendly construction practices. 1.1 Greenhouse Gases Emission - Cement industry The cement industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), as well as air pollutants like particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). It also releases toxic substances such as dioxins, heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These emissions impact health, the environment, and the economy. The industry is working on reducing emissions through energy efficiency, alternative fuels, and control technologies.
Key Words: Rice husk ash, Rice husk, Sand, Compressive strength, Slump Cone.
1.INTRODUCTION
1.2 Greenhouse Gases Emission - Sand mining
Cement is essential for India's infrastructure and construction sectors, with the country being the secondlargest producer globally, producing over 500 million tons annually. Despite this, regions in India have faced cement shortages due to factors like rising demand from government infrastructure projects, raw material shortages, and logistical issues. In response, the industry is expanding production through new plants and projects while adopting new technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. However, cement scarcity remains a challenge.
Sand used in construction can have several disadvantages, including environmental impact from over-mining, quality issues like impurities and improper grading, and structural problems from excessive use. It can also be costly, especially if transported from distant sources, and poses health risks due to dust and silica exposure. Sand is a non-renewable resource, and its overuse requires alternative materials like crushed stone or recycled options to minimize its impact.
2. Materials and Methodology
The construction industry heavily relies on cement and sand, but their high demand raises concerns about environmental and economic impacts. Cement production significantly contributes to carbon emissions, and excessive sand mining harms ecosystems. In light of these issues, alternatives like Rice Husk Ash (RHA) and rice husk have been explored to replace cement and sand. RHA, a by-product of rice milling, has pozzolanic properties that enhance concrete strength and durability while reducing the carbon footprint of cement. Similarly, rice husk can replace sand, mitigating sand scarcity and providing a solution to waste management.
2.1 Cement Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is the most widely used cement in construction. It is a fine powder made from calcium, silica, alumina, and iron, typically sourced from limestone, clay, and other materials. 2.2 Fine Aggregate Fine aggregate is a type of aggregate used in concrete, consisting of particles smaller than 4.75 mm. It is usually made of sand, crushed stone, or recycled concrete and helps fill the voids in the concrete mix, enhance workability, and provide a smooth finish. Fine aggregates are classified based on their size, shape, and texture.
This study aims to evaluate the effects of using RHA as a partial cement replacement and rice husk as a sand substitute in concrete, focusing on mechanical properties, durability, workability, and environmental impact. The
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