A comparative study on partial replacement of coarse aggregates in concrete with sustainable waste materials

Abstract

The present study focuses on identifying suitable and sustainable waste materials in concrete by replacing for coarse aggregates. Investigations have been conducted to determine how well the inappropriate wastes, palm kernel shells, periwinkle shells, and coconut shells perform as substitute for coarse materials in concrete. PKS, PS, and CS were developed as a replacement in 45 cubes and cylinders. Tests were conducted on their characteristic strength in compression and elasticity and workability. Concrete's elasticity and compressive capabilities declined when PKS, PS, and CS concentration rose. When compared with Periwinkle Shell Concrete (PSC), Coconut Shells Concrete, Palm Kernel Shell Concrete (PKSC) had lesser tensile and compressive strengths for all curing periods (CSC). The 28-day control concrete's constrict and elastic strength was 25 N/mm2 and 12 N/mm2, respectively. Considering PKSC, strength needed with 25% of replacement were 22 N/mm2 and 8.2 N/mm2; on 25% replacement, PS exhibited a compressive and elasticity of 21 N/mm2 and 10.4 N/mm2, respectively, while 25% replacement, the CS exhibited the values of 22 N/mm2 and 11 N/mm2, respectively. Thus a 25% replacement with the alternative materials satisfied the member strength of control concrete. Besides the technical assurance, the use of the ‘alternatives’ flags the usefulness of reusing the waste materials to protect the ecology of the area. Such cross sectoral material reuse may act as a game-changer in both the donor and receiver sectors. It also means that the world's building companies may conserve billions of tonnes of organic coarse aggregates and make significant financial savings thereby conserving our environment.