Sustainable Interlocking Blocks Containing Sugarcane Bagasse Ash: Structural Integrity, Cost Efficiency, and Environmental Benefits

This study aimed to evaluate the potential use of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) as a partial replacement for Portland cement in interlocking blocks to enhance sustainability, reduce costs, and mitigate environmental impacts. The research objectives included assessing the compressive strength, water absorption, durability, microstructural characteristics, cost-effectiveness, and carbon footprint of SCBA-modified interlocking blocks. Experiments followed established standards, using various SCBA replacement levels (5–30%), with performance evaluated through mechanical testing, SEM analysis, cost assessment, and life cycle carbon footprint calculation. The findings demonstrated that interlocking blocks with 20% SCBA substitution maintained structural integrity, achieving a compressive strength of over 7 MPa, with acceptable water absorption and excellent durability. Cost analysis showed savings of up to 7.53%, while environmental assessment revealed carbon emission reductions of 17.99%. Microstructural analysis confirmed the presence of calcium silicate hydrate, supporting strength development. The study also introduced the SCOPEC framework (Selection of materials, Composition and mix optimization, Operational performance, Production consistency, Economic feasibility, and Carbon reduction), offering practical guidance for SCBA utilization in sustainable block production. This research contributes a novel, scalable solution to reduce cement consumption, enhance resource efficiency, and promote eco-friendly construction materials for affordable housing projects. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2025-011-05-024 Full Text: PDF