Valorization of lignin residue in mortars and concretes

Abstract

Abstract The possibility of application for lignin, a byproduct of paper and pulp production, as a partial replacement for cement in producing mortars and concretes is presented. Initially, mortars were prepared with substitution rates ranging from 0.0% to 50.0% to determine the best rates for subsequent application in concretes. Statistical analysis showed that the rates with the highest potential for application in concretes were 2.5%, 5.0%, and 10.0%. After preparing the concretes, test specimens were molded and subjected to axial compression, splitting tensile strength, water absorption by immersion, void ratio, and capillary water absorption tests after the curing period. The results showed that lignin, in rates higher than 5.0%, led to decreased mechanical strength; however, all concretes with lignin significantly reduced capillary water absorption, which can lead to greater material durability.

Keywords

• concrete
• lignin
• sustainability
• environment
• reuse of waste