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Harnessing rice husk ash for sustainable construction: a comprehensive review of challenges, opportunities, and future perspectives - Journal of Material Cycles and Waste Management

Rice husk (RH) is often used as biomass fuel or discarded, leading to significant environmental impacts. Rice husk ash (RHA), obtained by burning RH, contains 82–97% amorphous silica, making it a potential sustainable material. Use of RHA has various advantages like wide availability and the low cost, however, the use of it as a construction material is limited due to processing inefficiencies and an insufficient understanding of its properties. This study reviews RHA production technologies, its advanced properties, potential applications, environmental impacts and economic benefits. Furthermore, the effect of RHA on the mechanical properties, durability and permeability of concrete are evaluated. Studies reveal that burning temperature (500–700 °C for 2 h), duration, cooling rate, RH source, burning method and pretreatment techniques (acidic or alkaline) are key factors influencing the performance of RHA. Notably, incorporating 10–20% of RHA can optimize concrete strength. This study also identifies several research gaps, including the need for energy-efficient and sustainable RHA extraction techniques, its application in geopolymers and 3D concrete printing, and the development of eco-friendly building products. This review aims to disseminate the knowledge that can assist industrialists and researchers in designing innovative machinery, optimizing processes, and developing research strategies to promote the sustainable application of RH waste.