Compressive Strength and Leaching Behavior of Mortars Using Cement and Wood Ash

This study investigated the use of soft-wood ash as cement replacement for mortars production. The aim was to provide an opportunity for a by-product, that is increasingly being produced in Italy since biomass combustion is considered of importance for energy production. Biomass is able to substitute a part of conventional fuels and can also become essential for a cost-effective production of local energy. Measurements of the workability, compressive strength, water absorption rate, and leachate properties (pH, salinity and Calcium ion release) of mortars specimen at different cement substitution levels and ages were evaluated. The results obtained reveal definitive possibilities for virgin wood ash (pines and poplar) reuse. It requires further confirmation, on a longer span of time and of other types of mechanical properties and environmental tests.