Work

Development of Green Ultra High Performance Concrete with low cement content using mineral powders and nano-silica extracted from rice husk ash

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In this study, GUHPC with a low cement content (≤ 450 kg/m 3 ) was developed through an optimized mix design that combined the physical and chemical effects of a binder system incorporating nano-silica (NS) extracted from rice husk ash. Six GUHPC mixtures were prepared with 0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5% NS contents. Experimental results showed that incorporating NS significantly enhanced the mechanical properties of GUHPC compared to the control mix. The most effective performance was achieved with 4% NS, which remarkably increased compressive strength, particularly at early ages. Direct tensile tests confirmed substantial improvements in the tensile capacity of GUHPC. Furthermore, incorporating NS enhanced stress–strain behavior, which is characterized by higher peak stress and greater ductility. Microstructural observations indicated that NS refined hydration products and promoted the development of a denser C-S-H gel network, thereby reducing microcracking and improving the homogeneity of the matrix.

Source: Case Studies in Construction Materials

DOI: 10.1016/j.cscm.2025.e05537

Authors: Thuc Van Ngo, Nga Thi Thu Nguyen, Bao Hoai Le, M.Q. Tran, Viet Hai Hoang, Bang Huu Tran

Institutions: University of Transport and Communications, Trường Đại học Xây dựng Miền Tây, University Of Transport Technology, Thu Dau Mot University

Language: English

Topic: Concrete and Cement Materials Research

Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,660