Experimental Study on High-Strength Concrete Incorporating Wheat Straw Ash as a Binder

Abstract

In contemporary construction, high-strength concrete has gained significant traction, prompting research into enhancing its properties, especially in demanding conditions. This focus has spurred numerous experiments to fortify concrete's strength and durability. Industries generate substantial volumes of by-products like fly ash, copper slag, silica fume, and GGBS, posing environmental and health hazards if not properly managed. This study diverges from conventional materials by utilizing wheat straw ash, a biologically rich material abundant in SiO₂ due to its high silica content, exhibiting pozzolanic characteristics. The research delves into the mechanical properties of high-strength concrete by integrating varied percentages of wheat straw ash in place of cement. Evaluations encompass compressive, split tensile and flexural strengths at 7 and 28 days. Alongside conventional materials, the concrete mix incorporates silica fumes (7.5%) and steel fibres (1%). Substituting cement content with wheat straw ash at 5%, 10%, and 15% (relative to cement weight) is explored across M60, M70, and M80 grade concrete. Findings reveal that a 5% cement replacement with wheat straw ash yields optimal strength across all grades, with all strength parameters meeting targets even at 15% replacement. This suggests that a 15% substitution enhances strength, reduces structural load, promotes waste utilization, and curtails carbon emissions, facilitating carbon credit accumulation.