Characterisation and pore structure analysis of mortar incorporating valorised rice husk ash

Physical, chemical, and mineralogical characterisation of as-received rice husk ash (RHA) samples sourced from four rice-growing regions (North, South, East, West) India is presented. Valorised RHA was obtained through controlled combustion at two temperature ranges (600–700 °C 650–700 °C) husks the North in an industry set up. Valorisation efficacy has been tested comparative valorised RHAs with regions. Blending 15% (in beneficiated state) by weight cement had no adverse effect on compressive strength even though water–binder ratio blended mortar to be increased 14% achieve flow control mortar. Compared mortar, porosity measured using mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) up 10% primarily due increase number large mesopores (0.01–0.05 µm).