Waste utilization

The increasing demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly construction materials has prompted the exploration of alternative waste materials for use in concrete production. This study investigates the partial replacement of fine aggregate with periwinkle shell in concrete as a means of reducing construction costs, conserving natural resources, and promoting waste utilization. The research evaluates the effects of incorporating varying percentages of processed periwinkle shell as a substitute for fine aggregate on the properties of concrete.
Concrete mixes were prepared with different replacement levels of fine aggregate using periwinkle shell, while a control mix containing conventional materials was also produced. Standard laboratory tests were conducted to determine the workability, density, compressive strength, and durability characteristics of the concrete specimens. The results indicate that the inclusion of periwinkle shell influences the fresh and hardened properties of concrete. Workability generally decreased with increasing replacement levels, while compressive strength showed acceptable performance at lower replacement percentages. The density of the concrete also reduced, suggesting the potential for producing lightweight concrete.
The findings reveal that periwinkle shell can be effectively utilized as a partial replacement for fine aggregate in concrete production without significantly compromising structural performance when used within optimal replacement limits. The study concludes that the use of periwinkle shell contributes to sustainable construction practices by reducing environmental waste and the dependence on natural sand resources. It is recommended that partial replacement levels within the optimum range be adopted for non-critical and selected structural applications

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in Nigeria due to its strength, durability, and versatility. However, the increasing cost of granite and the environmental impact of quarrying have created the need for alternative, sustainable materials. At the same time, palm kernel shell (PKS), a by-product of palm oil processing, is generated in large quantities and often disposed of as waste, leading to environmental pollution. This study investigates the suitability of palm kernel shell as a partial replacement for granite in Grade 20 concrete. Granite was partially replaced with PKS at 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% by weight. The physical properties of PKS, including specific gravity, bulk density, and aggregate impact value, were
determined. Concrete mixes were produced and tested for workability using the slump test, as well as fresh and hardened density. Concrete cube specimens were cast and cured for 7, 14, and 28 days before compressive strength testing in accordance with relevant British Standards The results indicated that the incorporation of PKS reduced the density of concrete, confirming
its potential for lightweight applications. Workability and compressive strength decreased with increasing PKS content due to the high water absorption and lower strength of PKS compared to granite. However, concrete containing up to 20% PKS achieved compressive strength values close to the target strength for Grade 20 concrete at 28 days. It was concluded that palm kernel shell can be used as a partial replacement for granite up to an optimum level of 20%, offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for sustainable concrete production