Research Projects

India's agricultural residues offer a promising alternative for bioenergy generation, with many micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) relying on biomass for power generation. The physico-chemical characteristics of biomass ashes depend on crop, boiler type, and processing conditions. High volume utilization of biomass ash (BA) in alternative binders is crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of construction materials. This project aims to develop novel Portland cement-free alternative binders that use high volume of biomass ash in their formulations. Waste mapping across India will be the first step, followed by detailed material characterization of biomass ashes. Thermo-mechanical methods will be examined to enhance the reactivity of biomass ashes, with a focus on establishing the composition-reactivity relationship of biomass ash. Three techniques will be adopted for binder formulation, with the goal of achieving required strength and durability. Advanced techniques, such as Field emission Scanning Electron Microscopy and Solid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), will be used to study the polymerization and modification in the structure of silica gel. This study will provide a better understanding of new cementitious phases composed by calcium-modified silica gel, calcium carbonates, and calcium silicate hydrates, and explore their effect on engineering properties. This project will open new avenues for high volume utilization biomass ash utilization in construction materials.