Study on Slag-Rice Husk Ash based Alkali Activated Concrete

Alkali activated binder is an innovative material and a potential alternate to conventional Portland cement for use in construction applications. Alkali activated binder is prepared using industrial or agro based by-products such as ground granulated blast furnace slag, fly-ash, rice husk ash, etc. This paper presents the processes and tests involved in evaluation of the strength and workability of slag-rice husk ash based alkali activated concrete. Raw rich hush ash was collected from various sources, ground and tested to attain suitable fineness and use in preparation of the concrete. Blast furnace slag and rice husk ash were incorporated in various percentages to prepare the alkali activated concrete. Results from the tests were compared with that of conventional Portland concrete. The fineness of rice husk as well as the amount played significant role in altering the properties of alkali activated concrete. Porousness of rice husk ash lowers the workability and compressive strength.