A Systematic Review on Utilization of Rice Husk Ash in Manufacturing of Concrete

Abstract

India, as the second-largest country in terms of rice production, faces the challenge of managing waste generated from rice mills. One potential solution is the utilization of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) in concrete production, which can help address increasing demand for concrete while reducing CO₂ emission associated with its manufacturing. RHA is acquired by incinerating rice husks in mills, yielding a remarkable silica content of approximately 90% alongside commendable pozzolanic reactivity. These characteristics make RHA a viable and sustainable building material that can be used as a partial replacement for cement in concrete. Several published studies have explored the successful utilization of RHA in manufacturing of concrete and have examined the attributes exhibited by this concrete during both the early (fresh) and later (hardened) stages. The findings of these studies suggest that RHA holds promise for use in various types of concrete, including normal concrete, high-strength concrete, and self-compacting concrete. Concrete incorporating RHA has shown favourable results in terms of strength and durability parameters. By replacing a portion of cement with RHA, concrete can exhibit comparable or even improved performance compared to traditional concrete mixes. Moreover, the use of RHA in concrete production offers additional environmental benefits. It contributes to resource conservation by utilizing an agricultural waste product that would otherwise be discarded. This approach helps in managing agricultural waste generated by rice mills. By incorporating RHA into concrete, the construction industry can contribute to the circular economy by reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. In conclusion, the utilization of RHA as a partial cement replacement in concrete offers a promising solution for industrialists and the construction industry in India. It not only addresses the challenge of waste management in rice mills but also helps in mitigating the impact of concrete production on the environment. The addition of rice husk ash in concrete can enhance the strength and durability of the material while providing additional environmental benefits and contributing to the circular economy.