Characteristics of Sugarcane Bagasse Ash as a Pozzolanic Material—A Report on Present Knowledge

Abstract

This paper reviews critically and reports on the present knowledge on the use and characteristics of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) as a pozzolanic material which has been used by the researchers as a supplementary cementitious material. Sugarcane bagasse ash is an agro-waste produced due to the burning of sugarcane bagasse for electricity generation in sugar mills and the alcohol industries. SCBA is rich in silica which identifies it to get classified as a pozzolanic material. Based on this property researchers of the past have used this waste material as replacement of binder material in mortar and concrete. Results of the studies revealed that the SCBA contains both amorphous as well as crystalline silica. An increase in mechanical properties is observed on the partial replacement of cement by SCBA. The durability of mortar and concrete enhances significantly on supplementation of SCBA. The microstructure of concrete gets modified due to the incorporation of SCBA. The use of SCBA in cement composites has no adverse impact on the environment. Utilization of this agro-waste saves cement consumption, thereby reduces cement production directly and reduces carbon dioxide emission indirectly. As a whole the SCBA can be used as a suitable and sustainable futuristic cement replacement material with great potentials in terms of economy and environmental benefits.KeywordsAgro-wasteSugarcane bagasse ashAgricultural wasteSupplementary cementitious materialMicrostructure