Characterization and Economic Viability of Local Sugarcane Bagasse Ash as Partial Replacement of Portland Cement

Portland cement is one of the most consumed materials in civil construction, however, there is a large emission of CO2 in cement production, therefore the search for alternative materials that reduce environmental impacts and production costs arises. As Brazil is one of the main world producers in the sugar and alcohol complex, sugarcane represents a great importance of agribusiness in the country's economy. Bagasse is a sugarcane by-product which, during burning in boilers, generates sugarcane bagasse ash (CBCA). The objective of this research is to evaluate the mechanical properties and the influence of partial replacement of local CBCA in proportions of 10%, 15%, 20% and 0% as a reference. For durability analyses, specimens were made and analyzed by electrochemical techniques for corrosion assessment, through the test of corrosion potential (Ecorr), corrosion intensity (Icorr), resistivity of concrete and resistance to linear polarization. The mineralogical composition was evaluated using XRD analysis. Regarding the economic feasibility, bibliographic surveys were carried out for a better basis and findings of the research. The results indicated that the specimens produced with CBCA reached more electronegative corrosion potential values over time, providing a more favorable condition for corrosion. Concluding that the physicochemical characteristics of the local ash depend on the granulometry, degree of crystallinity of the bagasse fibers, burning conditions and that the ash has great availability and can replace cement in low contents with significant advantages.