Compressive strength and chloride resistance of grout containing ground palm oil fuel ash

Abstract

This study investigates the compressive strength of grout and how the filler effect of ground palm oil fuel ash (POFA) contributes to its strength. POFA derived from the palm oil fruit bunches (POFA–FB) and also from the kernels (POFA–K) were ground to two different particle sizes and used to replace Type I Portland cement at 0–40% by weight of binder to cast the grout samples. The compressive strengths of ground POFA grouts were determined at various ages between 7 and 60 days. The results showed that the compressive strength of grout reinforced with POFA–K was much more noticeable as compared to that of POFA–FB. It is also reported that small particles of ground POFA promoted a filler effect that helped to increase the compressive strength of grouts. In contrast, larger particles of ground POFA decrease the value of compressive strength due to the development of more voids in the microstructure. Also, the inclusion of the ground POFA has reduced the charge passed of grout indicating its capacity as chloride resistance agent.