Investigation of Bagasse Ash as an Alternative Raw Material in Clinker Production

Abstract

The feasibility of using sugarcane bagasse ash waste (BA) as an alternative raw material for clinker production was investigated. The effect of the BA on the mineral and mechanical properties of clinker at various sintering temperatures, as well as its environmental impact, was examined. The addition of BA increased the formation of C2S at 1,250°C but adversely affected the formation of C3S at 1,450°C, which caused compressive strength loss. However, the addition of BA up to 1.0 percent by weight at 1,450°C meets the ASTM standard that requires a minimum compressive strength of at least 19.0 MPa for seven days of curing time. In The EPA toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) revealed that concentrations of As, Cr, Pb, Fe, and Mn in the raw BA exceeded applicable limits These elements were not detected or were negligible after the sintering process. Results indicate that sugarcane BA waste can be used as an alternative raw material in clinker production as a means of recycling this waste product, thus contributing to sustainable waste management.