The Effect of Using Rice Husk Ash as a Cement Substitution on the Binding Time of Cement Paste

rice husk ash, setting time, cement paste

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June 27, 2026
July 9, 2026

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The utilization of agricultural waste as an alternative construction material is one of the efforts to support sustainable development. One type of waste with potential for use is rice husk ash, which has a high silica content. This study aims to analyze the effect of using rice husk ash as a partial substitute for cement on the setting time of cement paste. This research was conducted experimentally in a laboratory with variations in rice husk ash content of 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5%, and 15% by weight of cement. The tests included determining normal consistency as well as initial and final setting times using the Vicat apparatus in accordance with SNI 03-6827-2002 standards. The research results show that the addition of rice husk ash has a significant effect on the setting time of cement paste. The silica content in rice husk ash plays a role in the hydration process. At percentages of 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5%, rice husk ash can improve the efficiency of cement usage without exceeding the setting time limits specified by the standards. At higher proportions, a considerable change in setting time occurs, so its use needs to be carefully considered.