Developing non-load bearing concrete block from Rubber Tree Ashes and Water Hyacinth Fiber

Abstract

The objective of this research is to study the use and benefits of rubber tree ashes, a byproduct of biomass power plants, and water hyacinth, an invasive plant species; in formulating non-load bearing concrete blocks. The study aimed to create non-load bearing concrete blocks that are more durable, and lighter than its standard counterparts using rubber tree ashes and water hyacinth fiber as substitutes for Portland cement and aggregates respectively. A total of 9 formulas were tested with the controlled standard formula set at 1:2:4 ratio per weight of Portland cement, sand, and aggregates respectively. 9 mixes were formulated to study the effects of substituted components on the density and compressive strength of the non-load bearing concrete blocks. The 9 mixes constituted with rubber tree ashes partially substituted for Portland cement type 1 at 5%, 10%, and 15% and Hyacinth fiber partially substituted for aggregates at 0.5%, 1%, and 2%. Test results showed that compressive strength of M1, M1-1, M1-2, M2 M2-1, and M2-2 formula with at least 7 days of curing has over 2.5 MPa of compressive strength, passing the Thai Industrial Standards (TIS) 58-2533. M1-2 formula (15% rubber tree ash and 0.5% water hyacinth fiber) produced the best results with compressive strength of 10.27 MPa average at 28 days of curing. In conclusion, the results showed correlation between the increase in ratio per weight of the substituents (rubber tree ashes, and water hyacinth fiber) and the decrease in compressive strength of the concrete blocks. This study was interesting and proved that utilizing properties of rubber tree ashes and water hyacinth fibers in formulating cement blocks is feasible; encouraging the use and development of green technology and innovation, as well as providing benefits in terms of waste management and environmental sustainability.