In the quest for sustainable and cost-effective construction materials, a team of researchers has made a significant stride by replacing a commercially limited nano-silica product with a locally sourced alternative. Led by Mohammadfarid Alvansazyazdi, a researcher affiliated with the Institute of Science and Concrete Technology at the Universitat Politècnica de València in Spain, the Central University of Ecuador, and Laica Eloy Alfaro de Manabi University in Ecuador, the study explores the potential of rice husk ash nano-silica as a viable substitute for Aerosil 200 in high-strength concrete.
The research, published in the journal *Revista Eídos* (translated to English as “Viewpoints Journal”), focuses on the synthesis of silicon dioxide nanoparticles from rice husk ash, a byproduct of rice milling. The team sourced the rice husk ash from a local plant in Mocache, Los Ríos, Ecuador, and employed a chemical synthesis process to produce the nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were then used to replace 1.5% of the total cement weight in optimized high-strength concrete mixes.
The results of this partial replacement are promising. The study reports significant improvements in the mechanical properties of the concrete, particularly at early ages. “We observed enhancements in compressive strength, indirect tensile strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio,” Alvansazyazdi noted. These improvements were further confirmed through advanced analyses using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), which provided detailed insights into the material’s chemical composition, particle size, and microstructure.
The economic viability of this approach is particularly noteworthy. By utilizing a locally available resource, the research team has demonstrated a method that not only reduces costs but also promotes sustainability. This could have significant implications for the construction industry, especially in regions where Aerosil 200 is scarce or expensive to import.
The study’s findings suggest that rice husk ash nano-silica could be a game-changer in the construction sector. “This research opens up new possibilities for the use of agricultural waste in high-value construction materials,” Alvansazyazdi explained. The potential for local production of sustainable materials while maintaining high-quality standards could revolutionize the way we approach construction projects, particularly in developing countries.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the search for alternative material sources remains a top priority. This study highlights the importance of innovation and sustainability in the quest for high-performance construction materials. With further research and development, rice husk ash nano-silica could become a standard component in high-strength concrete mixes, paving the way for a more sustainable and economically viable future in construction.