Experimental investigation on the effects of partially replacing cement with waste paper ash on the properties of concrete.

Abstract

Cement is one of the main constituents of concrete which acts as a binder between the other materials of concrete. The increase in the rate of concrete results into an increase in the production of cement which causes various environmental problems and due to the larger use of natural resources, cement causes the depletion of the natural reserves. The release of carbon dioxide during the manufacturing and usage of cement leads to global warming. Currently, one of the best methods to make concrete industry more sustainable is by using waste materials in replacement of the cement due to its expected increase in demand. Waste Paper is a major economic and has led to environmental problems in this country due to their dampness after use. In this research, an alternative method to reduce the usage of natural resources and the usage of waste paper in the construction industry was sought. This work examines the viability of using waste paper ash as an alternative material applied as a partial replacement of cement for new concrete and its effect on the properties of concrete. Also, the cost analysis of using waste paper ash was examined. In this study, waste paper ash was partially replaced as 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% in place of cement in C-25 concrete mix and tested for compressive strength, water absorption, light weight character and dry density up to 28 days in comparison with convectional concrete. 46 concrete mixes with 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% waste paper ash replacement was prepared where 10 out of 46 concrete mixes were used for testing water absorption. Based on the results obtained from the research, all the percentage replacements showed a reduction in compressive strength than the control mix however, the 5% passed the required strength at 28 days. The water absorption of concrete was increased with increasing percentage of waste paper ash than the control mix. The dry weight and density decreased with an increase in waste paper ash than the control mix. The cost comparison indicated that the incorporation of waste paper ash decreased the cost of concrete which saves the raw materials used in concrete and cement production. It was therefore found out that waste paper ash can be used as a cement replacement up to 5% by weight.