Experimental Investigation of Water Hyacinth Ash as the Partial Replacement of Cement Using Alkaline Activators in Concrete

Abstract

Cement production is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. The primary source of emissions is the chemical reaction that takes place during the production of clinker, the key ingredient in cement, which releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). In addition, the transportation and use of cement also results in emissions. To mitigate the environmental impact of cement, efforts are being made to reduce emissions in cement production, increase the use of alternative and lower-carbon materials, and promote the use of more efficient and sustainable building practices. Cement is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, so there is a growing interest in finding alternative materials that can reduce its environmental impact. Some of the most promising substitutes for cement include Fly ash, Ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), Rice husk ash and Silica fume e.t.c. The study investigated the use of water hyacinth ash of 0%, 10%, 20% & 30% as a partial replacement for cement in concrete with the addition of alkaline activator of NAOH with different molarities in concrete such as 2, 4, 6 and 8. The aim was to determine the effect of the replacement on the mechanical properties of concrete. Expecting the results will show that the replacement of cement with water hyacinth ash improved the compressive strength and durability of concrete, with the addition of alkaline activators having a significant effect on the properties. This study highlights the potential of water hyacinth ash as a sustainable alternative in concrete production and the importance of alkaline activators in improving the performance of concrete.