Hygrothermal Effects of Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregates with Palm Kernel Shell in Concrete Production

Abstract

Hygrothermal effects of partial replacement of coarse aggregates with Palm Kernel Shell (PKS) in concrete production were assessed. Preliminary tests were conducted on PKS to determine its suitability for use as aggregate in concrete production. Workability and Density of the fresh concrete were also determined. Cylinders of 100mm diameter by 50mm height were used to cast the concrete; these were cured for 28 days and tested for water absorption and sorptivity at different replacement levels of coarse aggregates with PKS. The sorptivity of concrete was found to increase with increase in PKS content, however, between 5-25% PKS content, lower sorptivity values than control were recorded. Water absorption of concrete also increased with increase in PKS content, PKS contents from 5-20% gave water absorptions below the control and at 25% replacement, a slightly higher value as compared to the control was recorded. From the results obtained, concrete with 5% PKS content was found to possess the best water absorption as well as sorptivity values. Such concrete adequately fits for use in areas where concrete water absorption and sorptivity are required to be kept at a very minimal level; such as in the construction of drainages and dams.