Effective Usage of Silica Fume Ash as the Replacement of Cement in Concrete
Authors- K.Pradeep, R.Dhivakar, K.Tharwin, A.Balakumaran
Abstract-The construction industry continuously seeks sustainable alternatives to traditional materials to reduce environmental impact and enhance performance. One such alternative is silica fume ash, a byproduct of silicon and ferrosilicon alloy production, which has gained attention as a partial replacement for cement in concrete. This study explores the effective utilization of silica fume ash in concrete mixtures, focusing on its impact on strength, durability, and workability. The high pozzolanic activity of silica fume ash enhances the compressive strength of concrete by refining the microstructure and reducing porosity. Additionally, its incorporation improves durability properties, such as resistance to sulfate attack, chloride penetration, and alkali-silica reaction. However, proper mix design and curing methods are crucial to achieving optimal performance, as excessive replacement levels may adversely affect workability. This research evaluates various replacement ratios of silica fume ash in cement and presents experimental findings on the mechanical and durability properties of modified concrete. The results highlight its potential in producing eco-friendly, high-performance concrete, contributing to sustainable construction practices. The increasing demand for sustainable and high-performance concrete has led to the exploration of supplementary cementitious materials. Silica fume, a byproduct of silicon and ferrosilicon alloy production, has gained attention as a viable replacement for cement due to its pozzolanic properties. This study investigates the effective utilization of silica fume ash as a partial substitute for cement in concrete, aiming to enhance mechanical strength, durability, and environmental sustainability.