Flexural Characteristics of Eco-Friendly Self-Compacting Concrete with Rice Husk Ash

Advancements in concrete technology have significantly enhanced the quality and properties of concrete specifically in self-compacting concrete (SCC). The incorporation of rice husk ash (RHA), a bio-organic waste, which have a pozzolanic characteristic should improves the concrete properties, such as durability, workability and strength of the concrete. But the extend of its potential to the hardened structural element could be further investigated. The objective of this research is to examine the flexural behavior of an optimal SCC mix using RHA as a partial cement replacement alongside admixtures. Three reinforced concrete beams (100 mm x 200 mm x 1500 mm) were prepared for flexural testing: two with the optimal SCC mix and one with normal concrete (NC) as a control. The results indicated that the mix with 5% RHA and 1% Sika Viscocrete, enhancing the performance of hardened concrete in compressive strength but decreasing in flexural properties. However, the reduction in weakness still surpasses the sample that does not contain any RHA. These findings provide valuable insights for the industry, promoting the reuse of this bio-waste as a raw material and potentially reducing the cost of conventional cement usage.