EVALUATION ON THE EFFECT OF USING PALM KERNEL SHELLS AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT FOR COARSE AGGREGATES IN CONCRETE

ABSTRACT
This study delves into the repercussions of substituting a portion of traditional coarse
aggregates with palm kernel shells (PKS) in concrete mixtures. With sustainability at the forefront, the research explores the mechanical durability of this novel approach. Through a comprehensive analysis of compressive strength, and durability characteristics, alongside considerations of environmental impact and cost-effectiveness, this investigation aims to provide insights into the feasibility and potential benefits of integrating PKS as a sustainable alternative in concrete production. Locally sourced aggregates went through sieve analysis, specific gravity, aggregate impact and slump tests to validate their suitability. Concrete cubes were properly casted with dimensions of 100mm x 100mm x 100mm in percentage replacements of 5%, 10% 15% and 20% and left to undergo curing. This study scrutinizes the influence of substituting conventional coarse aggregates with palm kernel shells (PKS) on concrete properties, focusing on workability, compressive strength, and water absorption.

Employing standardized tests including the slump test for workability assessment,
compressive strength tests, and water absorption measurements, the research
systematically evaluates the performance of concrete mixtures containing varying
percentages of PKS.
The result for the AIV (27.7) and ACV (7.31) didn’t exceed 30% which satisfies the
ASTM standard. It clearly demonstrated that increasing the percentage replacement at
water/cement ration of 0.6 caused a gradual decrease in the compressive strength, density
and workability and then an increase in the water absorption.