Evaluación de la resistencia a flexión y corte de dovelas de ferrocemento elaboradas con mortero, sustituyendo parcialmente OPC por cáscara de ceniza de café

Abstract

Abstract: The production of Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) generates high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, driving the search for sustainable alternatives. This study evaluated the effect of partially replacing OPC with coffee husk ash (CHA) at levels of 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12% on the mechanical properties of mortar after 7, 14, and 28 days of curing. Based on compressive strength results, the optimal replacement percentage was selected for the fabrication of ferrocement segments reinforced with metal mesh layers, which were then evaluated using a three-point bending test. The results showed that slump decreased as the CHA content increased. However, compressive strength improved at moderate replacement levels of up to 6%, reaching 28.98 MPa compared to 26 MPa for the control sample. Furthermore, segments produced with the optimal mix demonstrated adequate structural performance, showing 11% and 18% improvements in flexural and shear strength, respectively, compared to conventionally manufactured segments. It is concluded that CHA is a viable cementitious material, reducing OPC usage while utilizing agro-industrial waste.