COMPARISON OF THE EFFECT OF PALM KERNEL FIBRE ASH ON THE COMPRESSIVE EARTH STABILISED BLOCK

P. O. Omotainse; O. M. Obamuyiwa; M. A. Busari; U. T. Igba; O. U. Dairo; S. O. Jekayinfa

P. O. Omotainse Department of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, College of Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Ogun state
O. M. Obamuyiwa Department of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, College of Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Ogun state
M. A. Busari Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Ogun state
U. T. Igba Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Ogun state
O. U. Dairo Department of Agricultural and Bio-Resources Engineering, College of Engineering, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. Ogun state
S. O. Jekayinfa Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria

Keywords: Palm Kernel Fibre Ash (PKFA), Compressive Strength, Flexural Strength

Abstract

Pursuing cost-effective, sustainable building materials remains imperative, particularly for addressing housing deficits in developing nations like Nigeria. This study investigates the influence of one agricultural by-product, palm kernel fibre ash (PKFA), on the compressive and flexural strengths of compressed stabilised earth blocks (CSEBs), aiming to identify optimal proportions for enhanced block strength. Through systematic testing, variations in flexural and compressive strengths are evaluated across different percentages of PKFA replacements (ranging from 0% to 100%). The X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis of the PKFA reveals complex crystal structures with various mineral phases, shedding light on the ash's composition and potential structural implications in CSEB production. Results demonstrate a noteworthy impact on the mechanical properties of CSEBs with PKFA incorporation. Flexural strength exhibits improvements with low percentages of PKFA replacement, peaking at certain levels before declining at higher substitution rates. Compressive strength, similarly, showcases enhancements up to a certain replacement percentage, beyond which a decline is observed. The findings suggest an optimal range of PKFA replacement that augments the strength of CSEBs without compromising structural integrity. The study underscores the potential viability of PKFA as a substitute for cement in CSEBs, offering insights into the optimal replacement percentages for enhanced block strength