STRENGTH AND DURABILITY ASSESSMENT OF TERNARY BLENDED CONCRETE CONTAINING CORN ASH AND SILICA FUME

– Concrete is a fundamental material in modern infrastructure, but its primary binder, Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), is associated with significant environmental drawbacks, including high carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and depletion of natural resources. To address these concerns, this study explores the use of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs), specifically silica fume and corn ash, as partial replacements for cement in M20 grade concrete. Silica fume, an industrial by-product with high pozzolanic reactivity, and corn ash, an emerging agricultural waste material rich in silica, were combined in varying proportions to evaluate their synergistic effects on concrete performance. Five concrete mixes were prepared, ranging from a control mix with 100% cement to blends with up to 10% silica fume and 9% corn ash. The mixes were tested for compressive strength, split tensile strength, and water absorption at 7, 28, and 90 days of curing. Results indicated that a 6% replacement of cement with corn ash, in combination with 10% silica fume (Mix SC3), achieved the best overall performance, balancing strength and durability enhancements with sustainability benefits. This study highlights the potential of integrating industrial and agricultural waste in concrete production to reduce environmental impact, conserve natural resources, and support low-carbon construction practices.