Strength Properties of Blended Cement Mortar with Metakaolin and Rice Husk Ash

This study investigates the feasibility of using rice husk ash (RHA) and metakaolin as substitutes for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in mortar production to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with construction. The study employs MM3 grade mortar, with RHA replacing cement at varying percentages (0%, 5%, 10%, and 15%), while metakaolin consistently substitutes 10% of the cement. Compressive strength tests are conducted on specimens cured for 7, 14, and 28 days to assess performance. The study utilizes OPC 53-grade cement with a water-cement ratio of 0.4. In total, four mortar mixes are prepared, and each mix comprises nine specimens, totaling 45 specimens. Initially, conventional mortar is evaluated for its physical and mechanical properties. The study aims to contribute to ongoing efforts in the construction industry to explore sustainable alternatives to conventional materials, such as RHA and metakaolin, while ensuring the requisite strength properties of mortar are maintained.