# Sustainable Use of Volcanic Ash in Mortars as a Replacement for Cement or Sand: Shrinkage and Physical and Mechanical Properties

## TL;DR

This study explores using volcanic ash as a sustainable replacement for cement or sand in mortar, helping reduce waste and environmental impact.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel approach for using locally available volcanic ash in infrastructure materials in volcanic regions.

## Key findings

- Replacing up to 15% of cement with ground volcanic ash yields promising mechanical results.
- Substituting up to 25% of sand with volcanic ash also produces viable mortar mixes.
- The use of volcanic ash reduces shrinkage and supports sustainable construction practices.

## Abstract

The eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano on 19 September 2021 resulted in the deposition of over 20 million cubic meters of tephra, posing significant environmental and logistical challenges in the affected areas. This study aimed to explore the valorization of volcanic ash (VA) by evaluating its potential use in producing sustainable mortar by incorporating it as a replacement for cement or sand. Various experimental mixtures were prepared with different proportions of VA which substituted either cement or sand, and these mixes were characterized through a mechanical and microstructural campaign. Additionally, shrinkage was evaluated for the mixtures which showed good mechanical results. The results suggest that partially replacing cement with up to 15% ground VA as well as substituting sand with up to 25% VA are promising strategies for the production of sustainable mortar mixes. This research contributes to the understanding of the influence of VA in cementitious matrices and offers a novel approach for integrating locally available geomaterials into infrastructure design in volcanic active regions.