Influence of Rice Husk Incorporation on the Strength of Structural Concrete: An Experimental Approach in San Martin, Peru 2026

Abstract

Rice husk (RH) is an abundant agro-industrial residue that can be incorporated into concrete mixtures as a sustainable alternative material to improve their mechanical performance. The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of RH incorporation on the compressive and flexural strength of structural concrete with a design strength of f'c = 210 kg/cm². An experimental methodology under controlled laboratory conditions was applied using concrete mixtures containing 0.00%, 0.50%, 0.80%, and 1.00% RH. Cylindrical specimens and prismatic beams were tested at curing ages of 7, 14, and 28 days according to ASTM standards. The results demonstrated that the mixture containing 0.80% RH achieved the best mechanical performance, reaching a maximum compressive strength of 218.10 kg/cm² and a flexural strength of 43.30 kg/cm² after 28 days of curing, exceeding the performance of conventional concrete. Additionally, the incorporation of moderate percentages of RH improved the internal cohesion of the concrete and reduced segregation without significantly affecting workability. It is concluded that the moderate incorporation of rice husk improves the mechanical properties of structural concrete and represents an environmentally sustainable alternative for the reuse of agricultural waste in the construction industry.