The Development of Coir- Concrete Blocks Aslightweight Construction Material

Abstract

This paper presents the research into the incorporation of coir fiber in concrete blocks for construction purposes. Mechanical tests were performed on concrete samples containing different percentages of chopped coir fibers (0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1 by weight of aggregates). Density and water absorption characteristic of the samples were also measured and evaluated in relation to the mechanical properties. It was found that the average compressive strength of the blocks is in the range of 5–6 MPa and the average flexural strength is in the range of 1.04–1.47 MPa, which are lower compared to the results of samples without coir. Nevertheless, the compressive strength range of coir- concrete blocks in this study satisfies the requirements of relevant standards (SNI, AS and ASTM), specifically for non-structural or non-load-bearing concrete blocks. Furthermore, the density of the coir-concrete blocks is between 1230–1536 kg/m3 which fit into the category of lightweight blocks. Based on the results, it can therefore be suggested that the development of coir-concrete blocks is feasible for non-structural, non-loadbearing, lightweight construction material.