Impact of rice husk ash on geopolymer concrete: A literature review and future directions

In recent years, the pursuit of sustainable materials in concrete production has increased, driven by the essentials of environmental conservation, energy efficiency, and resource optimization in construction. Rice husk ash (RHA), distinguished for its abundant silica content, has emerged as a promising biomass-derived material capable of enhancing both the performance and sustainability of geopolymer concrete (GPC) structures. This study undertakes a comprehensive review of literature published between 2014 and 2024, focusing on the chemical composition and physical properties of RHA, and its influence on the physical, mechanical, durability, and microstructural properties of GPC. The results indicated that the addition of a small amount of RHA enhances the strength and durability of concrete, especially with Metakaolin (MK). For instance, the addition of 15% RHA increases the compressive strength by 21%. The addition of 20% RHA reduced the water absorption of GPC by 14%. Furthermore, the research supports the extensive utilization of treated RHA to counteract the adverse effects associated with conventional cement concrete, thereby fostering greater sustainability in construction practices.