In the quest for sustainable construction materials, a recent study published in ‘Engineering Reports’ (translated from Arabic as “Engineering Reports”) has uncovered promising potential in an unlikely source: olive waste ash (OWA). This research, led by Hassan Ghanem from the Faculty of Engineering at Beirut Arab University in Lebanon, explores the use of OWA as a partial cement substitute in mortar, offering a glimpse into a more eco-friendly future for the construction industry.
The environmental impact of Portland cement is well-documented, with its production accounting for a significant portion of global carbon emissions. Ghanem’s study investigates the feasibility of OWA, a byproduct of olive oil production, as a sustainable alternative. “The idea is to transform a waste product into a valuable resource,” Ghanem explains. “This not only reduces waste but also cuts down on the environmental footprint of construction materials.”
The study prepared five mortar mixes, each containing varying percentages of OWA (0% to 20%). The results were promising, with a 10% OWA mix yielding optimal performance. This mix reduced chemical shrinkage, autogenous shrinkage, drying shrinkage, and expansion by 25%, 15%, 21%, and 24%, respectively. While the compressive and flexural strengths were slightly reduced compared to the control, the improvements in volumetric stability were significant.
Ghanem’s research also developed predictive models to assess compressive strength and moisture transport behavior over time. These models, based on hyperbolic and capillary-diffusive functions, correlated well with experimental data, providing reliable predictions for future applications.
The commercial implications for the energy sector are substantial. As the world shifts towards sustainable practices, the demand for eco-friendly construction materials is on the rise. OWA, readily available in olive oil-producing regions, could become a valuable resource for local construction industries. “This is not just about reducing waste,” Ghanem notes. “It’s about creating a circular economy where waste products are transformed into valuable resources, benefiting both the environment and the economy.”
The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field, encouraging further research into other waste products as potential construction materials. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of sustainable practices will be crucial. Ghanem’s research offers a compelling example of how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, paving the way for a greener future.
In the broader context, this research highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. By bridging the gap between agricultural waste management and construction materials, Ghanem’s study opens up new avenues for sustainable development. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, such innovations will be key to building a more sustainable future.
The study, titled “Physical, Mechanical, and Volumetric Stability Properties of Mortar With Olive Waste Ash as Cement Substitute,” was published in ‘Engineering Reports’, offering a beacon of hope for a more sustainable construction industry. As the world watches, the olive oil byproduct might just become the next big thing in green construction.