Optimization of rice husk ash (RHA) as partial replacement of cementing material in structural ceramic composite concrete using response surface methodology (RSM) statistical experimental design

Abstract

Rapid development in the concrete industry leads to a higher demand for cement consumption worldwide. Due to this, the production of cement has become very crucial, resulting in a high carbon footprint and pollution along the process. Therefore, the utilization of agricultural by-products as cement replacement will help to reduce pollution caused by conventional cement production and therefore reduce the unsystematic waste management. Rice husk ash contains high silica content that makes it a potential material to partially replace cement in concrete production. This is because, the reaction between rice husk ash and cement can improve the compressive strength of the concrete. With the aid of response surface methodology, the optimization of utilizing rice husk ash as a partial replacement of cement in concrete can be achieved. Therefore, concrete incorporated with rice husk ash with high and optimum compressive strength can be produced.