Research shows sarooj mortar as a cost-effective cement alternative

MUSCAT, MARCH 4

A Muscat-based scientist has scooped the 10th National Research Award for his pioneering study of the Omani traditional building material – the sarooj mortar – which has contributed to advancing economic sustainability in the construction industry.

Dr Mohammed Seddik Meddah (pictured), Associate Professor at the Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, Sultan Qaboos University, was cited for his research project, titled ‘Sarooj Mortar: From a Traditional Building Material to an Engineered Pozzolan - Mechanical and Thermal Properties Study.’

This research not only secured recognition but also unveiled a locally developed solution that has the potential to notably reduce production costs in the construction sector.

The study focused on the mechanical and thermal properties of Sarooj mortar and strategically explored the use of locally sourced raw clay as an engineered pozzolan.

Dr Meddah’s team conducted a comprehensive analysis, examining the chemical, mineralogical, physical, microstructural, and thermal characteristics of the raw clay, both in its raw and calcined states.

The core of the research lies in creating mortar mixes using Sarooj as a substitute for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Various mortar mixes were meticulously designed and produced, showcasing the adaptability of Sarooj in combination with natural sand from Wadi Al Khoud.

The study delves into the economic advantages of substituting OPC, a traditionally costly component in construction.

Dr Meddah’s findings suggest that integrating Sarooj mortar can lead to substantial cost reductions in cement production.

The locally developed pozzolana proves to be not only economically viable but also environmentally friendly, as the thermal treatment required is significantly less energy-intensive compared to the traditional clinker cement manufacturing process.

Published in the Journal of Building Engineering with a remarkable cite score of 8.3 and an impact factor of 6.4, the research underscores the potential impact on cost-effectiveness in construction materials.