In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Materiales de Construccion’ (Materials of Construction), researchers from the University of Córdoba are unveiling the potential of biomass bottom ash (BBA) as a transformative ingredient in cement-based materials. This innovative research led by M. Rosales explores the dual processing of BBA—through carbonation and pulverization—to enhance its properties for use as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) and a sand substitute.
The study focuses on two types of BBA derived from eucalyptus forestry and olive industry residues. By subjecting these materials to grinding and carbonation, the researchers aimed to improve their mechanical performance in mortar mixtures. The results are promising: mortar containing 25% ground BBA as a cement replacement and up to 50% as sand replacement demonstrated significant enhancements in compressive strength, with carbonated specimens outperforming their non-carbonated counterparts by an impressive 35-55%.
“The findings support the technical feasibility of BBA in cementitious materials, contingent on adequate processing,” Rosales stated, highlighting the importance of proper treatment in maximizing the material’s potential. The eucalyptus-derived BBA exhibited particularly notable pozzolanic activity, which contributed to its superior strength compared to conventional CEM II type cement.
This research is particularly relevant for the construction sector, where sustainability and resource efficiency are increasingly critical. The use of BBA not only presents an opportunity to reduce waste from biomass industries but also offers a pathway to lower the carbon footprint of cement production. As the industry grapples with environmental challenges, integrating BBA into construction materials could lead to more sustainable building practices.
With construction companies seeking innovative solutions to meet green building standards, the implications of this research could be far-reaching. By harnessing locally sourced biomass waste, the sector could not only improve the mechanical performance of its products but also contribute to a circular economy.
As M. Rosales and his team continue to explore the capabilities of BBA, the construction industry stands on the brink of a new era in sustainable material use. For more information about this research and its implications, you can visit the University of Córdoba.
