National Concrete Pavement Technology Center

Project description

Rice hull ash (RHA) is a cementitious material, which may contain about 75% silica in an amorphous form and has an extremely high surface area. RHA is also economically beneficial, but its performance as a construction material has been investigated very little. High silica content makes it a probable pozzolanic material for concrete by following the Roman Concrete technology. The main objective of the proposed study is to assess the usage of rice hull ash (RHA) as a construction material. Specific objectives are given as: (i) evaluate chemical, physical and strength and expansion properties of RHA-modified concrete based on curing time and environmental conditions; and (ii) assess the feasibility of using RHA as an alternative modifier to enhance performance properties of soft asphalt binders. These objectives will be accomplished by testing RHA-modified samples in laboratories. Strength properties (compressive, tensile, elastic modulus, etc.) and alkali-silica reactivity (ASR) properties of RHA-modified concrete at different curing time will be evaluated. Rheological properties of RHA-modified asphalt binders will be determined by following the routine and Superpave test protocols. The benefits of the proposed study are (a) reuse of waste materials in transportation construction projects, (b) enhance training opportunity for students in the Mississippi Delta region, (c) help local farmers and asphalt industries to be economically sustainable, and (d) build a future workforce.