Influence of Ash from updraft co-gasified goat bones and wooden scaffold wastes on concrete performance

Abstract

Nigeria, with an annual consumption of 360,000 tonnes of goat meat, faces significant environmental challenges due to improper disposal of abattoir waste including goat bones, leading to water pollution and foul odours. Additionally, wood waste from construction contributes to global waste management issues. This study investigates the potential use of ashes derived from goat bones and wooden scaffold waste as partial replacements for cement in concrete. The ashes were characterized for their morphology, chemical composition, and functional groups using SEM, EDS, and FTIR analyses. The hardened concrete samples were tested for compressive and split-tensile strengths at 7, 28, and 56 days to assess their mechanical performance. Results indicate that a 1:0.67 ratio of goat bone to wooden scaffold waste ash exhibited optimal pozzolanic properties. Concrete with 5–20% ash replacement showed strength gains over time with compressive strengths ranging from 38.8 to 51. 2 N/mm2 and split-tensile strength ranging from 3.9 to 5.8 N/mm2 aligning with the delayed strength development typical of pozzolanic materials, making it suitable for reinforced concrete applications. This study provides a sustainable solution to waste management and eco-friendly concrete production.