| Abstract: |
The construction industry globally is under increasing pressure to minimize its carbon footprint while maintaining structural performance, supplemented cementitioius material (SCM) fly ash (FA) represents one of the most realistic routes to achieving net zero emissions. Objective: The objective of this empirical study is to investigate the mechanical properties, fresh concrete characteristics, and the durability performance of concrete mixes, alongside incorporating percentages (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) of Class F fly ash as a replacement of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) by weight. All together 108 standard specimens were cast at 7-day, 28-day & 90-day curing age and tested as per IS: 516, IS:1816 & ASTM C1202. Results establish that 28-day compressive strength presents an inverse relationship with FA content, while the range of 20–30% replacement promotes better 90-day strength development due to persisting pozzolanic activity. Chloride ion penetrability, water absorption, sorptivity, and carbonation depth as indicators of durability parameters was showed statistically significant in improving by increasing extracting level of FA. Linear decreases in CO₂ emissions from 348.0 kg/m³ (control) to 174.0 kg/m³ (50% replacement) were again observed. The highly significant effect of FA replacement level (F = 48.72, p < 0.001) on compressive strength is confirmed by one-way ANOVA. Pearson correlation analysis shows that FA content is statistically negatively correlated with 28-day strength (r = −0.974) and statistically positively correlated with workability (r = 0.997). The optimal level of FA replacement giving a structural and durability improvement and gains in sustainability is found to be ∼20–30%. Barriers statement and Shifting focus, The slow speed for gaining initial strength may present a challenge and The inconsistency in the quality of exposed ash submitted for processing, Insufficient successes, Regulatory inertia, The need for awareness by |
