Evaluation of solid molasses on the physical and mechanical properties of concrete

Nepal faces the dual challenge of rapid infrastructure growth and aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals. Relying on imported chemical admixtures hinders sustainable construction. This study evaluates solid molasses (SM), natural molasses (NM), and a chemical superplasticizer (SP) as admixtures in M20 concrete. SM, a sugar industry by-product, and NM, produced by boiling sugarcane juice, were tested against SP using a control mix (w/c = 0.48; cement:sand:coarse aggregate = 1:1.44:3.02). Admixtures were added in varying dosages by cement weight to assess effects on workability, strength, density, and water absorption. Optimal contents were 0.080 % (SM), 0.075 % (NM), and 0.600 % (SP). SM delivered superior performance across all properties, indicating it as the most effective and sustainable admixture. Its use can enhance concrete quality, reduce reliance on imports, and promote waste valorization, making it a viable solution for sustainable infrastructure in Nepal and similar developing nations.