An investigation on the mechanical and microstructural properties of pigeon pea stalk ash concrete: An approach towards environmental sustainability

Abstract The concept of sustainability in agricultural residue management has gained increasing traction around the world in recent years. After harvesting, large volumes of waste are generated that are often dumped into the environment, causing pollution. In addition to preventing environmental degradation, these wastes can also be used in the concrete industry to reduce mineral resource depletion. With this approach, sustainable development is possible. According to the results of this investigation, the effect of pigeon pea stalk ash (PPSA) as a partial replacement of cement in concrete, a series of experimental tests were performed. It has been found that the compressive strength increases for the mixes from 4 to 8% of cement replacement. In contrast, the strength decreases when the percentage replacement of pigeon pea stalk ash with cement exceeds 8%. Based on the experimental results, concrete infused with 8% pigeon pea stalk ash increased its compressive strength by 6.96%. The compressive strength decreased with a further increase in PPSA content. Although the split tensile strength value of PPSA8 concrete was same value compared to the control concrete, even an 8% PPSA concrete has higher strength than other replacement levels. Concrete with 8% PPSA content was observed to have a higher flexural strength than control concrete. PPSA concrete was prepared with pigeon pea stalk waste up to 8% substitution of cement. PPSA concrete has reduced permeability and higher resistance to acid attack. All the strength and durability test results revealed that PPSA concrete type was superior to the control concrete in terms of mechanical qualities and durability characteristics. The present work discusses concrete's improved economic and environmental aspects with incorporated pigeon pea stalk ash. Hence, this study points toward the highest potential use of more concerned about agricultural wastes like pigeon pea stalk ash in green concrete.