DefinePK

Abstract

The high and rising costs of building construction in developing countries have been a source of concern to government and private developers. This study investigated the use of saw dust and palm kernel shells (PKS) as replacement for fine and coarse aggregates in reinforced concrete slabs. Reinforced concrete slabs measuring 800 x 300 x 75mm were cast. Sawdust and PKS were used to replace both fine and coarse aggregates from 0% to 100% in steps of 25%. Flexural strengths were evaluated at 7, 14 and 28 days and compressive strengths were evaluated at 28 days. Increase in percentage of sawdust or palm kernel shells in concrete slabs led to a corresponding reduction in both flexural and compressive strength values.  It is seen that at a low replacement value of 25% sawdust and PKS can produce lightweight reinforced concrete slabs which could be used where low stress is required at reduced cost. A weight reduction of 14.5% and 17.9% was achieved for sawdust and PKS replacement slabs respectively. It is also seen that the reduction in cost up to 7.43% can be achieved for every cubic meter of slab production with use of sawdust or palm kernel shell.