In the quest for sustainable construction materials, researchers have turned to an unlikely source: industrial waste. A recent study published in the journal *Mix Sustentável* (which translates to *Sustainable Mix*) explores the potential of alkali-activated pastes made from biomass ash, offering a promising alternative to traditional Portland cement. The research, led by Iuri Veríssimo Mendonça of the Universidade Federal do Ceará (UFC) in Brazil, delves into the use of ceramic and cellulose industry by-products, highlighting their viability in creating eco-friendly construction materials.
The study focuses on two types of biomass ash: ceramic biomass ash (CBA) and paper biomass ash (PBA), both mixed with fly ash to create alkali-activated cementitious pastes. “The increasing demand for sustainable alternatives in civil construction has spurred the development of cementitious materials with reduced environmental impact,” Mendonça explains. “Alkali-activated materials have emerged as a promising solution, enabling the partial replacement of Portland cement with industrial by-products.”
The research involved a series of tests, including mini-slump, setting time, compressive strength, water absorption, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results were intriguing. CBA, with its high calcium content (86.23%), showed greater reactivity and better mechanical performance. In contrast, PBA, characterized by a high silica content (65.9%) and a low calcium content (6.54%), exhibited higher compressive strength (30.66 MPa) but lower workability indices.
These findings suggest that both types of biomass ash can be viable alternatives to Portland cement, contributing to sustainability and the circular economy by reusing industrial waste. However, the variability in ash properties requires strict control to ensure consistency and optimization of composites.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. As the construction industry seeks to reduce its carbon footprint, the adoption of alkali-activated materials could revolutionize the way buildings are constructed. “This research demonstrates that industrial waste can be transformed into valuable construction materials,” Mendonça notes. “It’s a win-win situation for both the environment and the industry.”
The study published in *Mix Sustentável* underscores the potential of alkali-activated materials in shaping the future of sustainable construction. As the industry continues to innovate, the integration of industrial by-products into construction materials could pave the way for a more sustainable and circular economy. The research by Mendonça and his team at UFC is a step in this direction, offering a glimpse into the possibilities that lie ahead.