Rice-by products potential as precursors in geopolymer concrete: a review and its beneficial use of studies

Rice serves as a primary staple in many Asian nations, generating significant straw residue during cultivation. Improper disposal or burning of this residue not only contributes to environmental hazards, such as greenhouse gas emissions, but also leads to the loss of a valuable agricultural by-product for farmers. Harnessing rice straw for construction purposes presents an opportunity to advance sustainable practices and provide a clean energy solution to address India’s increasing energy demands. Nevertheless, ensuring the sustainability of rice straw ash in geopolymer production requires thoughtful evaluation within the current agricultural landscape of India. Although rice straw is carbon-neutral, concerns about its environmental impact throughout the entire process, from cultivation to transportation, have been raised. This review evaluates methods and materials for partially replacing rice straw in construction for environmental sustainability. It also discusses mathematical models for predicting mechanical properties and examines the potential of rice straw ash and other materials as replacements in construction.