The effects of using agricultural waste as partial substitute for sand in cement blocks

• Published in: Journal of Building Engineering 2018-09, Vol.19, p.216-227
• Main Authors: Sathiparan, Navaratnarajah, De Zoysa, H.T.S.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aggregate; Compressive strength; Durability; Flexural strength; Workability
• ISSN: 2352-7102; 2352-7102
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jobe.2018.04.023

The disposal of agricultural waste is a serious environmental problem. Use of agricultural wastes in the production of cement block may reduce the global environmental pollution. This study analyzes the feasibility of using agricultural waste like rice husk, sawdust, peanut shell, rice straw and coconut shell as a partial sand replacement in the manufacture of cement blocks. The experiments have been conducted to determine the physical, strength and durability properties of cement block. Test results show that cement blocks with agricultural waste were satisfied the strength requirement according to the ASTM standard but durability is the major issue for these blocks. Cement block with coconut shell and peanut shell shows reasonable strength and durability properties. •Possibility of agricultural waste as a sand replacement for cement block was investigated.•Rice husk, sawdust, peanut shell, rice straw and coconut shell were used.•Cement blocks with agricultural waste falls under light weight block according to the ASTM C55-11.•Cement blocks with waste materials have lesser strength than control blocks.•Durability is the major issue for these types of blocks production.