Modelling the Slump, Compressive Strength and Density of Concrete Containing Coconut Shell as Partial Replacement for Crushed Granite

Abstract

In this research, crushed coconut shell was used to partially replace crushed granite as coarse aggregate in the production of concrete. Tests were conducted on the physical properties of crushed coconut shell and crushed granite. Thirty one random mixes were generated using Mini Tab 14 statistical software package. A total of 108 cubes were cast and cured for 28 days and then crushed to determine their compressive strength. The results were used to develop empirical models for the slump, compressive strength and density of the concrete. The concrete developed in this work has slump ranging from 0 – 135 mm, compressive strength ranging from 8.94 N/mm2 – 27.11 N/mm2 and density ranging from 1757.04 kg/m3 to 2198.52 kg/m3 respectively. This implies that concrete made using coconut shell as partial replacement for crushed granite can be used for structural application such as in the construction of reinforced concrete slabs, beams, columns and foundations. Polynomial model was developed with the capability of explaining the under-laying relationship of 93.8%, 83.6% and 72.3% for slump, compressive strength and density respectively.