Use of coconut shell ash as light-weight aggregate in concrete block for saving energy

Abstract

The objectives of this research are to study the production step, proper ratio, physical properties, mechanical properties, thermal insulation and sound insulation efficiency of concrete blocks mixed with coconut shell ash. The ratios of concrete block mixed with coconut shell ash include Portland cement type1: quarry dust: coconut shellash which equal to 1: 6.8: 0.2, 1: 6.7: 0.3, 1: 6.6: 0.4, 1: 6.5: 0.5 and 1: 6.4: 0.6 by weight. Water per cement ratio are 0.6 by weight. The concrete block samples were casted by the general production as same as the ordinary concrete blocks and were tested follow TIS.58. From the results, the best amount of coconut shell ash which put into concrete block is 1: 6.7: 0.3 of ratio. The proper ratios of coconut shell ash can decrease the density or weight, and increase the thermal insulation and sound insulation efficiency of concrete blocks. However, the high amounts of coconut shell ash effect to decrease the mechanical properties concrete blocks that are lower than TIS.58 standard.