In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable construction, a groundbreaking study led by Akram M. Mhaya from the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Built Environment at Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia has shed new light on the potential of pervious concrete (PC) enhanced with biomass aggregate. This research, recently published in Ain Shams Engineering Journal, could revolutionize how we approach eco-friendly building materials, particularly in the energy sector.
Pervious concrete, often referred to as porous concrete, is known for its high permeability and low compressive strength. Traditionally, its applications have been limited due to these properties. However, Mhaya’s research introduces a novel approach by incorporating biomass aggregate (BA) as a partial replacement for natural aggregate in PC. The study systematically assessed the impact of BA on the compressive strength and void ratio of PC, utilizing response surface methodology (RSM) to design the experimental works.
The findings are nothing short of remarkable. Mhaya and his team discovered that while BA tends to reduce the compressive strength of PC, the addition of pozzolanic materials like fly ash (FA), silica fume (SF), and rice husk ash (RHA) can significantly enhance its strength. “Specimens with blended cement containing 5% of BA achieved 12.10 MPa, which is 46.7% higher than the control mix,” Mhaya explained. This is a game-changer for the construction industry, particularly for applications in the energy sector where durability and sustainability are paramount.
The study also revealed that specimens with 10% BA and pozzolanic materials achieved a compressive strength 42.5% higher than the control mix. This opens up new possibilities for using PC in energy infrastructure, such as solar panel foundations and wind turbine bases, where permeability and strength are crucial.
Mhaya’s research not only highlights the potential of biomass aggregate in enhancing PC but also underscores the importance of RSM in optimizing material properties. The strong correlation and minimal error indicated by the statistical indicators (R2 higher than 0.98 and error less than 0.2) validate the accuracy and consistency of both the mathematical and experimental models used in the study.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the demand for sustainable construction materials grows, the integration of biomass aggregate in PC could lead to more eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions. This could significantly reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry, aligning with global sustainability goals.
The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit from these advancements. With the increasing focus on renewable energy sources, the need for durable and permeable materials for infrastructure is more pressing than ever. Mhaya’s findings could pave the way for innovative applications of PC in energy projects, contributing to a more sustainable future.
The study, published in Ain Shams Engineering Journal, which translates to Cairo University Engineering Journal, marks a significant step forward in the field of sustainable construction. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of biomass aggregate in PC could become a cornerstone of eco-friendly building practices, shaping the future of construction and energy infrastructure.