INVESTIGATION ON THE USE OF WOOD ASH AND COCONUT SHELL IN VARIOUS STRENGTH CONCRETE
This study investigates the potential of utilizing wood ash and coconut shell as partial replacements for cement and coarse aggregate, respectively, in the production of concrete of varying strengths. The increasing environmental concerns associated with conventional concrete materials and the disposal of agro-industrial wastes have prompted the need for sustainable alternatives. The research aims to evaluate the mechanical performance and sustainability benefits of incorporating these waste materials into concrete. Mix designs were developed for concrete grades 15, 20, and 25, incorporating 5% wood ash and 15% coconut shell by weight. Workability, density, and compressive strength tests were performed at curing ages of 3, 7, and 28 days. The results indicated that concrete mixes containing these alternative materials exhibited lower slump values for grades 15 and 20, while grade 25 achieved a slump of 90 mm. Compressive strength increased with curing age and remained comparable to that of conventional concrete. The findings suggest that 5% wood ash and 15% coconut shell can be effectively utilized in structural concrete, promoting both sustainability and efficient waste management. It is recommended that these materials be considered for use in non-critical structural applications, especially in regions with abundant supply of such agro-wastes.
Authors : Aliyu, Y., Umar, B.S., Mohammad, B.Y. and Masi, L.T.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 11(2) Date Uploaded : 7th August 2025