Analysis of mechanical properties of cement containing boron waste and rice husk ash using full factorial design

• Compressive strength of cement is increased using waste materials.
• The use of industrial and agricultural wastes as a cement additive is investigated.
• 24 full factorial experimental design is proposed for experimental studies.
• Rice husk ash additive is found to help the compressive strength raise.

In the present study, utilization of industrial wastes, namely boron waste (BW) and agricultural wastes, namely rice husk ash (RHA) were investigated. RHA and BW were added separately and together to cement samples in different ratios. Compressive strength analyzes of the specimens were done after curing for 28 days. Optimization of mechanical properties of cement containing boron wastes (BW) and rice husk ash (RHA) were done by using 24 full factorial design. 10% rice husk ash additive specimens gave the highest result with respect to full factorial experimental design. We ensured that the compressive strength results are within the Turkish Standards. Both of these wastes can be used in construction industry with determined percentages.