Abstract
This paper presents the findings of an investigation into the influence of green-synthesized nano-TiO2 on the characteristics of wood ash (WA) cement mortar. Mortar specimens were prepared by partial replacement of cement with WA (10% by weight) and addition of 1, 2 and 3% nano-TiO2 by weight of binder; using constant water-to-binder ratio (w/b) for all mixtures. The properties evaluated are setting time of the binder and flexural and compressive strength with water absorption of the mortar. The results indicated that addition of 1 and 2% nano-TiO2 reduced setting times of WA cement paste. Also, the flexural and compressive strength of WA cement mortar were higher with the incorporation of up to 2% nano-TiO2. The water absorption of WA cement mortar was reduced when nano-TiO2 was added with 2% incorporation having the best result. The incorporation of NT in WA cement mortar improved its workability and strength characteristics.
Highlights
Wood wastes are commonly used as fuel to generate heat energy needed for various purposes such as cooking, drying and other heat-related processes
The incorporation of wood ash (WA) into the cement paste led to increase in both initial setting time (IST) and final setting time (FST) to 616:19 and 835:37 [min:s], respectively (Fig. 3b). This result is consistent with the findings by Rahhal and Talero (2004) and Nocuñ-Wczelik (2001) as the partial replacement of cement with WA reduced the exothermic rate of hydration due to the lower rate of pozzolanic reaction
Further decrease in FST was witnessed with 2% NT addition as shown in Fig. 3d, with a value of 768:15 [min:s]
Summary
Wood wastes are commonly used as fuel to generate heat energy needed for various purposes such as cooking, drying and other heat-related processes. A sustainable ash management that will integrate it within natural cycles was proposed (Obernberger 1997) This can be achieved by using wood ash (WA) as partial replacement for cement in concrete and mortar. A study by Raheem and Sulaiman (2013) reported the use of sawdust ash as partial substitution for cement in sandcrete block production. In all these studies, WA behaved excellently well in enhancing the properties of construction materials. Jalal et al (2013) examined the effects of fly ash and nano-TiO2 on rheological, mechanical, microstructural and thermal properties of high-strength self-compaction concrete.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call