Palm Kernel Shell As Aggregate For Light Weight Concrete

Abstract

In this study, the effect of replacing the conventional gravel with palmkernel shell as aggregates in making concrete was inquired into. Several volumes of palm kernel shells were used in two (4) different proportions with the other constituent and the strength of the concretes produced were tested to ascertain the effect of the replacement on the concrete produced. The palm kernel, cement, sand and gravel were mixed and cast in steel or cast iron moulds of 150mm2 cubes. The results show that the PK, with ratio of 1:2:3:1 of cement, sand, gravel and palm kernel shells respectively gave the highest compressive strength of 8.03N/mm' after 28 days of curing. Comparing the results of the tests with some standards, it was observed that 64% of the samples of the concretes produced with this partial replacement conform to the standard after 7 days of curing.