Diana Marcela Campo Núñez and Miguel Fernando Díaz Huertas
Ingenio Pichichí S.A., Guacarí, Valle del Cauca, Colombia; mfdiaz@ingeniopichichi.com
Sugarcane bagasse fly ash (SBFA) generated at Ingenio Pichichí was characterized to determine its potential as an additive in ceramic brick manufacturing and to promote the valorization of this waste. Ashes were characterized through physical, chemical, and mineralogical analysis using XRF and XRD to determine their composition and particle size. Laboratory-scale bricks were manufactured by partially replacing sand with SBFA at 3%, 5%, and 7%. The bricks underwent compression strength, moisture absorption, and efflorescence tests. Additionally, environmental impact assessments were carried out with leaching, ecotoxicity, and flammability tests to verify compliance with Colombian regulations. SBFA contains SiO₂ and Al₂O₃ at levels suitable for use as a pozzolanic material. Mineralogical analysis revealed 86.4% amorphous material, favorable for cementitious properties. Leaching and ecotoxicity tests confirmed that the ashes were neither hazardous nor toxic. Bricks with a 3% sand replacement with SBFA showed no significant differences in compressive strength, while higher percentages reduced strength, possibly due to increased porosity caused by the fly ash. Water absorption increased with higher SBFA content, reaching 19.56% in bricks at the highest SBFA concentration evaluated. SBFA is viable for use as an additive in brick manufacturing, helping to reduce the consumption of non-renewable raw materials. Moreover, they contribute to creating more eco-friendly materials. The observed properties suggest that they can improve density and reduce water absorption.