Evaluación de la cascarilla de arroz caolinizada como alternativa para el mejoramiento de materiales de rellenos o capas de rodamiento sin tratamiento superficial

Abstract

This project seeks to address the reuse of rice husk (RH), an abundant by-product of the rice industry in Colombia, as an effective solution to enhance the properties of filler materials and bearing layers, without the need to resort to surface treatments. The main focus lies in counteracting the environmental problems derived from the open air burning of rice husks, through the evaluation of the impact of its kaolinized version (KC) in the improvement of mechanical properties in granular and fine soils. This evaluation acquires relevance given the diversity of these types of soils in Colombia, which present challenges both in vehicular traffic in bearing layers without surface treatment and in the construction of road infrastructures. In order to fulfill this purpose, the aim is to characterize the chemical properties related to kaolinized rice husks, validating their binding capacity. Once its viability is confirmed, the aim is to position CC as an environmentally friendly alternative, which will contribute to reduce waste generation, improve air quality and take advantage of a surplus agricultural by-product. The results obtained in this analysis will provide the basis for the concrete implementation of this technique, generating an impact on a more sustainable management of agricultural waste in Colombia. In this process, a logical sequence of ideas is proposed, starting with the identification of the contamination problem derived from rice husk burning, proposing as an assumption the usefulness of kaolinized rice husk as a beneficial alternative. The methodology involves chemical characterization and evaluation of mechanical properties, followed by the implementation and validation of the technique. It should be noted that the proposal focuses on improving filler materials and bearing layers without the need for additional surface treatments. However, the possibility of requiring certain complementary treatments to optimize the effectiveness of kaolinized rice husk in certain contexts should be considered. Additionally, the relevance of the circular economy in this initiative should be highlighted, as the reuse of an abundant agricultural by-product not only addresses environmental issues, but also contributes to a more sustainable and efficient approach to resource management.