Research Paper

Evaluation of Pozzolanic Activity, Mechanical Strength, and Alkali-Silica Reaction in Cement Mortars Containing Biomass Ash

Yıldırım K.

J. Civil Eng. Urban., 15(4): 173-181, 2025; pii:S225204302500010-15

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.54203/jceu.2025.10 

Abstract
Sustainable construction practices are of great importance in mitigating the impacts of climate change and conserving natural resources. In this context, the present study investigates the feasibility of utilizing biomass ash (BA), derived from cotton and corn agricultural residues, as a pozzolanic additive in cement and concrete products. The experimental program evaluated the pozzolanic activity of BA, its influence on compressive strength, and its potential to mitigate alkali–silica reaction (ASR). In the pozzolanic activity test, the reference mortars achieved compressive strengths of 45.14 MPa and 51.13 MPa at 7 and 28 days, respectively, while BA-incorporated samples reached 35.12 MPa and 35.82 MPa, corresponding to a pozzolanic activity index of approximately 0.70. In concrete mixtures, compressive strength was maintained at acceptable levels for 15–20% BA replacement, whereas a significant reduction occurred at 25%, although strengths remained above 30 MPa. Furthermore, BA incorporation at 15%, 20%, and 25% reduced ASR-induced expansion by approximately 90% at 28 days, with all values remaining below ASTM limits. Overall, biomass ash demonstrated pozzolanic behavior and provided satisfactory mechanical and durability performance, highlighting its potential as a sustainable cement replacement and an effective material for mitigating ASR-related deterioration.
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