Influence of Superabsorbent Polymer on Fresh and Hardened Properties of Rice Husk Ash-Blended Cement Concrete: A Review
1* Oguntola I. O., 2 Raheem A. A., 3 Ikotun B. D., and 4 Koku-Ojumu B. E.
1,,4Civil Engineering Department, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
2 Department of Building, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria.
3 Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Building Science, University of South Africa.
DOI: 10.36108/laujoces/6202.71.0191
Abstract
Rice husk ash (RHA), a silica-rich agricultural by-product with significant pozzolanic potential, has attracted increasing attention as a supplementary cementitious material for partial cement replacement in sustainable concrete production. Its incorporation can improve later-age strength, refine pore structure and reduce dependence on conventional cement. However, RHA often increases water demand, thereby reducing workability and delaying early-age strength development. Superabsorbent polymer (SAP), a hydrophilic material that absorbs and gradually releases water, offers a potential solution through internal curing. This review examines the influence of SAP on the fresh and hardened properties of RHA-blended cement concrete, with emphasis on workability, internal curing, mechanical performance, shrinkage behaviour, self-healing, microstructural development and durability-related properties. Evidence from the literature indicates that moderate SAP dosages may reduce workability by temporarily absorbing mixing water, while the subsequently released water sustains internal curing, enhances later-age strength development and reduces shrinkage-related cracking in RHA-blended concrete. Conversely, excessive SAP dosage may reduce workability and mechanical performance because of increased residual porosity. The review also highlights the importance of optimizing both RHA replacement level and SAP dosage to balance fresh and hardened properties. Overall, RHA-SAP blended cement concrete shows considerable potential as a sustainable, high-performance construction material. However, further studies are required on long-term durability, microstructural development and mixture optimization to support its wider application in structural concrete.
Keywords: Rice Husk Ash; Superabsorbent Polymer; Blended Cement Concrete; Fresh Properties; Hardened Properties