Design of Sand/Palm Kernel Shell Particles as Binder for Block Making Applications

Abstract

This paper discusses the study of sand / Palm Kernel Shell (PKS) particles for suitability in block production using cement and hardener as binder. The mix proportion of the blocks was based on 16g with filler ratios (20/80, 40/60, 60/40 and 80/20) % represented as samples A, B, C and D respectively, and then cured for 30 days before testing. Tests conducted on the blocks were dry shrinkage, compressive strength, apparent porosity, bulk density, water absorption, hardness and SEM. Preliminary analysisof the results revealed that the physico-mechanical properties of the cement blocks were slightly better of than the hardener blocks across the various ratios. But sample D (80/20) amongst the other samples proved to be the best ofboth cement and hardener blocks. Clearly, the dry shrinkage of the hardener blocks was 0%,the compressive strength, apparent porosity, water absorption, hardness and also bulk density of the hardener blocks were in the range of 403 – 1050 KN/M2, 25 – 40 %, 18 – 41%, 47.6 – 74.7 Hv, 0.84 – 1.48 g/cm3 respectively. Thus, we can conclude that sand/PKS exhibit the better mechanical effect among other represented samples; as a result of its better tight network structure and stronger bond within the particles. This presents sand / PKS as a suitable substitute to cement in block making applications.