Effect of SO2 Acidic Gas on Binary and Ternary Blended Cements

Abstract

The sugarcane biomass ash (SCBA) and rice husk ash (RHA) considered as the agricultural residue-based biomass waste are nowadays utilized for developing the construction materials, which not only solves the problem of solid waste disposal but also gives energy-efficient construction products. The effect of acidic exposure on binary and ternary cementitious blends was investigated in the present study. The preliminary characterization of SCBA and RHA was done by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The binary blended cement block was produced by replacing 35% (by mass) of cement with SCBA. The ternary cementitious blends were prepared to investigate the advantages of the simultaneous use of SCBA and RHA on the pozzolanicity. Total four different mix/blend proportions were prepared and studied, containing SCBA and RHA (100:0, 80:20, 60:40, and control). The developed binary and ternary cementitious blends were exposed to severe environmental condition, i.e., exposure to SO2 (acidic gas). The characterization of developed binary and ternary cementitious blends was done by testing its relative strength index, electrical conductivity, and the compressive strength (7, 28, and 56 days). The results reflected that the ternary cementitious blend was more durable and had better resistance toward the acidic exposure than the binary cementitious blend and the conventional samples.