Utilization of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) in construction technology: A state-of-the-art review

Abstract

Supplementary cementing materials are promoted to replace cement throughout the world to curb the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) is obtained through burning agricultural waste bagasse, which can be used as a cement replacement to produce structural concrete. A comprehensive and up-to-date overview on the properties of concrete containing SCBA as partial replacement of cement is presented in this paper. The physical and chemical properties of SCBA and the effect of SCBA on the fresh, mechanical, durability and microstructural properties of concrete are described. Generally, the mechanical properties of concrete containing SCBA increase with the increase in SCBA cement substitution, and the optimal replacement ratio of SCBA is 10%–20%. The incorporation of SCBA into concrete improves the resistance to chloride ions, acid and sulfate attacks and alkali silica reaction. In addition, appropriate pretreatment methods (e.g. sieving, grinding, and burning) aid the improvement of the macro and micro properties of concrete containing SCBA. Environmental and cost analyses indicates that the use of SCBA as a partial substitute can reduce the carbon emissions and costs and have high economic and environmental benefits. Gap analysis shows that the long-term durability, abrasion resistance, shrinkage, freezing-thawing resistance and cost of SCBA concrete require further evaluation.