STRENGTH AND DURABILITY STUDIES ON BAGASSE ASH AND RICE HUSK ASH BASED GEOPOLYMER CONCRETE

Abstract

This paper focuses on the strength and durability studies of Bagasse Ash and Rice Husk Ash-based Geopolymer Concrete (GPC). The Geopolymer Concrete is produced by utilizing Bagasse Ash (BA) and Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as a complete replacement for cement, along with an Alkaline Activator Solution (AAS). Preliminary Tests: Various materials were tested before preparing the Geopolymer Concrete, including cement, Rice Husk Ash, Bagasse Ash, water, alkaline activator solution, fine aggregate, and coarse aggregate. Tests Conducted on Each Material: Cement, Rice Husk Ash, and Bagasse Ash: Specific gravity, Fineness modulus, Consistency test, Setting time (Initial and Final) Water :pH value, Turbidity, Total suspended solids, Dissolved solids, Suspended solids, Alkaline, ctivator Solution:, pH value, Specific gravity, Fine Aggregate:, Fineness modulus, Specific gravity, Water absorption, Bulk density, Coarse Aggregate: Specific gravity, Fineness modulus, Water absorption, Elongation index, Flakiness index, Crushing value, Impact value and Abrasion test. Geopolymer Mix Proportions: Alkaline Activator Solution (AAS): 7 molar concentration, Chemical ratio: 1 part sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and 2.5 parts sodium silicate (Na?SiO?). Two Different Mix Proportions: 70% Rice Husk Ash + 30% Bagasse Ash (GPC 1) & 60% Rice Husk Ash + 40% Bagasse Ash (GPC 2). Curing and Testing: The specimens were cured in water and air for 28 days. After curing, the compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength of both conventional concrete and Geopolymer Concrete were evaluated. Both Geopolymer mixes (GPC 1 and GPC 2) showed improved strength and durability compared to conventional concrete, with GPC 1 (70% RHA + 30% BA) showing superior performance.

Author

DR.D.SATHIES KUMAR , T.THRISHA , A.FATHIMA DARRAS GRACY , S.SHYAMALAGOWRI .