Using granular palm kernel shells to partially replace sand in Sand Crete bricks

Abstract

A study into the use of granular palm kernel shells (PKS) of varying sizes to partially replace sand in sandcrete bricks was conducted. Portland cement, Palm Kernel Shell-PKS, and portable water were used. PKS sizes used include 1.18mm, 2.36mm and 4.75mm. The materials were batched using 1:3 mix ratio where the sand content was replaced with PKS at 10%, 20% and 30%. A total population of 150 specimens was used for the study with 3 samples in each group to test compressive strength (wet and dry), split tensile strength, water absorption and abrasion resistance. All specimens were tested after 28 days curing. Significant difference was tested using ANOVA. The study shows that the addition of PKS to replace sand content generally and significantly reduced the compressive strength of brick specimen with the exception of 4.75mm size of PKS with 10% and 20% replacement compared to the control. Moreover, the compressive strength of brick increased as the PKS size increased but decreased as the percentage of replacement increased. The same trend was found for split tensile strength. The study recommended that the Government of Ghana should empower Civil engineers and contractors to use palm kernel shell (PKS) aggregate as a replacement in conventional sandcrete bricks in the locality where it is in abundance to enhance environmental cleanliness.