Wastes generation and emission of greenhouse gases are the major concerns of the contemporary world. Concrete’s cement companies globally are producing up to 2.8 billion tons of cement annually. This contributes to the emission of anthropogenic substances into the atmosphere, which destroys the ozone layer. The incessant disposal of these agricultural wastes has detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Thus, utilizing these wastes as secondary resources in concrete is a reasonable consideration in sustainable waste management within the circular economy.
The use of agricultural wastes in concrete production has been gaining attraction in recent years; however, their effectiveness and performance in concrete need evaluation. This study presents an overview of the effects of some agricultural wastes: Bagasse, Coconut shell, Cotton, Oil palm, and Hemp fibers on concrete and composite mechanical properties.
As reviewed, Sugar-Cane Bagasse Ash (SCBA) and Coconut Shell Ash (CSA) are rich in cementitious (pozzolanic) properties (SiO2, Fe2O3, and Al2O3) for cement production, up to 70%. Sugar-cane bagasse and oil palm-fiber ashes improved concrete workability. SCBA and CSA significantly increased the concrete compressive strengths. The concrete tensile strengths were increased by up to 97% with the inclusion of cotton and bagasse ashes. The SCBA, hemp fiber, and treated oil palm fiber ash increased the concrete and composite flexural strengths by up to 11.3%, 26.2%, and 50.7%, respectively.
In conclusion, the output of this review provides comprehensive data on the research gaps yet to be addressed regarding the use of agro-wastes in concrete for future investigations.
