Influence of Eucalyptus Ash as Partial Cement Replacement in Hydraulic Concrete Pavements with f'c = 210 kg/cm2

Becerra Stalin Alexander I.; Rodriguez Jonathan Jackson R.; Alejandra Velásquez Huayta F. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.749

Resumen

This research evaluates the effect of domestically sourced eucalyptus ash as a partial substitute for cement in hydraulic concrete for pavements, designed for a characteristic compressive strength of f'c = 210 kg/cm2. Mixtures were prepared with substitution percentages of 0%, 5%, 15%, and 20%, and evaluated through compressive and flexural strength tests at 7, 14, and 28 days. The results show a progressive decrease in mechanical properties as the ash content increases. At 28 days, the control mixture reached 254.84 kg/cm2 in compression and 42.41 kg/cm2 in flexure, while the mixture with 20% ash showed reductions of up to 35% and 22%, respectively. It is important to note that the ash used comes from domestic combustion processes, which introduces variability in its physical and chemical characteristics, potentially affecting water absorption and cement hydration. Despite the decrease in strength, eucalyptus ash has potential for nonstructural applications or low-stress pavements, contributing to the valorization of waste and the reduction of cement consumption.

Instituciones: Universidad Privada del Norte