ABSTRACT
An extensive evaluation of the viability and feasibility of using coconut shell (ash) as a partial substitute for cement in concrete was the goal of the project, which examined the impact of agricultural waste on some mechanical properties of the material. Particular attention was paid to the effects on potential failure modes, structural integrity, suitability, and cost-effectiveness for building construction. Coconut shells that were randomly selected were sun-dried for 48 hours to eliminate moisture, then exposed to an uncontrolled open-air burning process for about 4 hours before being ground. They were used to adjust the usual mix ratio of 1:1.5:3 by replacing cement by weight. Its pozzolanic characteristics were ascertained by analyzing the chemical composition. Cement replacement ranged from 0% to 20%. To ascertain its impact on the workability of concrete, a slump test was used. On days 7, 14, and 28, a total of 45 concrete cubes with dimensions of 100 mm by 100 mm by 100 mm were examined. At 7, 14, and 28 days, the control mix yielded compressive strengths of 16.2 N/mm2 , 21.63 N/mm2 , and 31.66 N/mm2 , respectively. The best appropriate compressive strength was achieved by the CSA substitution at 5%, which was 18.7 N/mm2 , 23.73 N/mm2 , and 30.77 N/mm2 for 7, 14, and 28-day curing periods, respectively. It is in compliance with BS EN 206-1: 2000 for heavy weight class C25/30 requirements.
