Prospects of Metakaolin Admixed Palm Kernel Shell Solid Concrete Masonry Block: A Review

Abstract

Over the last two decades, research on the use of Palm kernel shell (PKS) as a lightweight aggregate has shown that it can be utilised to make structural lightweight concrete. PKS concrete has a lower density than regular concrete, perhaps 20 to 25% lower. This review was presented as part of efforts to make efficient use of locally available materials by looking into the effects of replacing normal coarse aggregates with palm kernel shells on the density and compressive strength of concrete, as well as determining the suitability of palm kernel shell concrete as a structural material. The utilization of alternative binders like Metakaolin (MK) in Palm kernel shell concrete not only reduces the carbon footprint of conventional masonry products but also enhances the various properties associated with these products. In this review, the characteristics and properties of Metakaolin and Palm Kernel shell were discussed based on the literature survey. Also the application studies of metakaolin and Palm kernel shells in concrete mix to improve the compressive and flexural strength were described using the literature survey. The majority of research studies on the usage of palm kernel shells in concrete manufacturing have found that they may be employed in solid concrete masonry blocks for the construction of low-cost housing.