Experimental Investigation on Partial Replacement of Cement with Coconut Shell Ash and Silica Fume in Concrete: Exploring the Use of Coconut Shell Ash and Silica Fume as Cement Replacements in Concrete Production

Abstract

The cost of cement used in concrete works is on the increase and unaffordable, yet the need for housing and other constructions requiring this material keeps growing. So, there is a need to find alternative binding materials that can be used solely or in partial replacement of cement. Agricultural waste and industrial waste material like coconut shells and silica fume which is an environmental pollutant, are collected and used as pozzolana in partial replacement of cement in concrete production. The concrete even releases huge amount of CO₂ into atmosphere and to reduce that we have partially replaced cement with coconut shell ash and silica fume. From previous researches it was found that 10-15% replacement of OPC with CSA was recommended for heavy weight and light weight concrete production. So we have investigated on it by adding extra 5-10% of silica fume to find the compressive strength of the concrete for M₂₀ Grade. The Concrete cubes were produced using various replacement levels of 0, 10,15,20,25 and 30 percent of OPC with CSA and SF. A total of 27 cubes and 27 Cylinder were produced and cured by immersing them in water for 7, 14 and 28 days respectively. Properties such as compressive strength, Tensile Strength and density were determined. The optimal 28 days strength for OPC-CSA-SF mix is recorded at 10% replacement (25.44N/mm2). And 3.531 N/mm2 Therefore it can be used for concrete production.