Applications of waste Tulsa Plant Ash for improved cement properties and environmental conservation

Increased focus on sustainable building has generated interest in using industrial waste as mineral admixtures in cement to minimize environmental footprints. While widely used, Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is a major contributor to CO₂ emissions. This research explores the utilization of Tulsa Plant Ash (TPA), a waste product from oil extraction, as a substitute for OPC in partial replacement to improve hydration and mechanical properties. TPA was mixed with OPC at 10–15% replacement levels to study its effect on setting time, strength gain, and hydration properties. The incorporation of TPA hastened the setting compared to the control OPC mix. Compressive strength was enhanced with TPA content, with a maximum of 110 kN at 28 days with 10% TPA. X-ray diffraction (XRD) verified the development of secondary crystalline hydration products, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) evidenced a denser and tighter microstructure. Other tests, such as liquid phase analysis, pH, expansion, conductivity, and water absorption, also confirmed the enhanced performance of TPA-blended cement. These findings prove the viability of TPA as a pozzolanic additive in cement systems. 10% TPA is advised to be utilized as the optimal level of replacement for improving OPC properties as well as waste usage and construction material sustainability.