Patiala: A recent study conducted at Punjabi University has found that eco-friendly, high-strength concrete made using rice husk ash (RHA) and metakaolin as partial cement replacements could offer a more sustainable alternative for construction. Metakaolin is an additive used to make construction materials more durable.The findings are from research conducted by Amrinder Singh under the supervision of Anhad Singh Gill in the department of civil engineering.Amrinder Singh explained that rice husk ash is an agricultural byproduct obtained by burning rice husk at controlled temperatures and serves as an effective substitute for cement in green concrete. Metakaolin is a highly reactive material produced by calcining a special white clay (kaolin) at temperatures between 600 and 800 degrees Celsius.According to the study, a mix of 18% metakaolin and 20% rice husk ash yielded optimal performance in terms of concrete strength, durability and resistance to acidic and environmental conditions.Gill said incorporating steel fibres into the matrix significantly enhanced crack resistance and overall mechanical strength.University vice-chancellor Jagdeep Singh highlighted the importance of such research in addressing pressing environmental challenges.
