An Investigation on Durability Properties of Concrete From Selected Argo-Based Materials as Pozzolanas

This research examines the properties and durability of green and hardened concrete incorporating selected agro-based pozzolans: rice husk ash, locust bean pod ash, sugarcane bagasse, soya bean pod ash, and maize cob ash. These pozzolans were calcined and analyzed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to replace cement in concrete cubes, which were cured over 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The findings indicate that all pozzolans meet ASTM C618 requirements. Specifically, rice husk ash, sugarcane bagasse, and maize cob ash qualify as Class C pozzolana, while locust bean ash and soya bean ash are classified as Class F. The inclusion of these pozzolans increased the consistency, initial, and final setting times of cement. Consistencies ranged from 33% to 39.5%, with initial setting times from 74 to 225 minutes and final setting times from 152 to 400 minutes. The selected pozzolans slightly reduced the workability of the concrete but enhanced its durability, significantly improving resistance against aggressive media, including H2SO4, NaCl, and wastewater, at a 10% replacement level. This study highlights the potential of agro-based pozzolans as sustainable alternatives to conventional cement, offering environmental benefits and improving concrete performance in harsh conditions.