Sustainable lightweight self-compacting concrete using oil palm shell and fly ash

Abstract

This research investigated fresh and hardened properties of lightweight self-compacting concrete (LWSCC) incorporated with oil palm shell (OPS) and fly ash (FA). Fresh concrete properties including passing ability, filling ability and segregation resistance were assessed. The properties fulfilled EFNARC guidelines. Incorporation of FA improved fresh properties, particularly filling ability, with the slump flow value increased from 665 mm to 730 mm. As for hardened properties, OPS-aggregate based LWSCC mixes achieved compressive strength of range 18–38 MPa at 28-day age while the splitting tensile strength was in the range of 1.6 to 2.8 MPa. SEM analyses showed good bonding in the interfacial transition zones (ITZ). Micro-pores of OPS were filled by cement hydration products and thus ITZ was enhanced. LWSCC incorporated with OPS, a renewable resource from agricultural waste, and with partial FA replacement, is potentially a sustainable alternative construction material.