Pozzolanic Efficiency of Palm Kernel Shell Ash in Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of Autoclave Aerated Sandcrete Blocks

Abstract

This study evaluated the mechanical properties of palm kernel Shell
Ash (PKSA) on sandcrete blocks. There is shortage of low and
medium housing scheme in Nigeria. The research method was
divided into two main parts. First, commercially used sandcrete
blocks was collected, checking the performance and quality of
blocks produced by local manufacturers. The second phase focused
on creating autoclaved aerated sandcrete blocks using PKSA at
replacement levels of 0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. Moreover,
our experimental program included microstructural analysis using
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray
Spectroscopy (EDX), and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). We also
conducted mechanical tests, measuring compressive strength and
density at different curing times (7, 14, 21, and 28 days) for all
sandcrete blocks. At 28 days, the maximum strength measured from
the commercial blocks was only approximately 0.74 N/mm2, while
the maximum strength recorded at 7.5% replacement of PKSA at
28 days is 2.1553N/mm2. Even though the laboratory-produced
blocks' compressive strength values were marginally below the
British Standard's 2.5 N/mm² minimum requirement, the results
show that the AASB's performance can be further optimized to meet
or surpass the necessary standards.