Properties of Concrete Produced with a Blend of Groundnut Shell Ash and Periwinkle Shell Ash as a Binder, Partially Replacing Ordinary Portland Cement

I. M. Oyemogum; M. E. Gukas & E. E. Ekwueme
Department of Building
Faculty of Environmental Sciences
University of Jos, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

The current global issues of pollution, environmental degradation and global warming of which construction activities contribute a large percentage has become so serious that construction practices and materials are being reviewed to minimize the danger that could result from this. The use of renewable or waste materials for construction work will lessen energy consuming activities as well as allow for proper waste disposal. Groundnut shell and Periwinkle shell, as natural materials, are obtained as waste. Chemical analysis of Groundnut Shell Ash (GSA) and Periwinkle Shell Ash (PSA) was carried out and identified as having desirable pozzolanic and
cementitious properties. The study, therefore, investigated the effect of a
blend of Periwinkle Shell Ash (PSA) and Groundnut Shell Ash (GSA) as partial replacement for cement in concrete production. The Specimens were designed to attain to target strength of 20N/mm2. A concrete grade M20 with a mix of ratio 1:1.5:3 was used for this research work with the
introduction of GSA and PSA in 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40% of the total weight
of the concrete constituents. The test cube specimens used in the research
was of 150mm moulds. Compressive strength was tested at 7, 14 and 28 days.The result obtained showed that optimal replacement level of 30% will
produce concrete with acceptable compressive strength. The study
concluded that a 30% blend of GSA and PSA content is suitable replacement
for cement in structural concrete