Environmental impact mitigation and durability enhancement of concrete through fly ash substitution: a comprehensive review

Cement is the fundamental ingredient in concrete, a widely utilized material in construction. Cement production is responsible for nearly 8% of global carbon emissions, creating an urgent need for sustainable alternatives. Cement production and use significantly raises environmental issues due to greenhouse gas emissions. Cement manufacturing emits a considerable quantity of carbon dioxide as one of the primary contributors to greenhouse gases. Fly ash (FA) is a residual material from coal combustion and is abundant in silica and alumina. Researchers have replaced cement with FA in different amounts to reduce the impact of sulfate attacks, carbon emissions, and durability issues. FA incorporated into concrete improves its characteristics by facilitating pozzolanic reactions. Fly as a cement replacer material has gained more popularity in the construction market with the attention of researchers and scientists. This review paper investigates the application of FA in concrete, focusing on its potential to reduce environmental impacts while improving mechanical and durability properties. The study highlights the effects of FA on the compressive and split tensile strengths of concrete, underscoring its role as a viable, eco-friendly alternative in modern construction practices. The findings of this paper are particularly relevant for large-scale infrastructure projects seeking to achieve sustainability goals without compromising strength and durability. This review uniquely explores the simultaneous benefits of FA in reducing environmental impact and enhancing concrete performance, distinguishing it from existing literature.