Enhancing Mechanical and Durability Properties of Coconut Shell Concrete Using Fly Ash

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 02 | Page : 19 24
    By

    Gaurav Pandey,

  • Harsh Rathore,

Abstract

The increasing demand for sustainable and lightweight construction materials has driven research into alternative aggregates for concrete production. This study investigates the mechanical and durability properties of coconut shell (CS) concrete with varying percentages of fly ash replacement. The research evaluates compressive strength, split tensile strength, water absorption, and workability to determine the feasibility of CS concrete as a structural material. Experimental findings indicate that incorporating 10% fly ash (CSF10 and CSP10) significantly enhances compressive and split tensile strength at all curing ages (7, 28, and 56 days). The highest gain of strength was observed at 56 days due to the prolonged pozzolanic activity of fly ash. The CS-based mixes exhibited lower density than conventional concrete, highlighting their potential for lightweight construction applications. Water absorption was initially higher in CS concrete due to the porous nature of the aggregates but fly ash incorporation reduced absorption by refining the pore structure. Additionally, the partial replacement of CS with crushed granite aggregate (CSP mixes) further lowered water absorption, improving concrete durability. The study concludes that CS concrete with optimal fly ash replacement enhances mechanical strength and durability while maintaining sustainability. The results suggest its potential use in non-structural and semi-structural applications, with further research recommended for long-term performance evaluation and large-scale implementation. The integration of waste materials such as CS and fly ash in concrete aligns with sustainable construction practices, promoting resource efficiency and environmental conservation.

Keywords: Coconut shell aggregate, fly ash, lightweight concrete, compressive strength, split tensile strength, water absorption, sustainable construction, pozzolanic reaction, durability, waste utilization

[This article belongs to Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology ]

How to cite this article:
Gaurav Pandey, Harsh Rathore. Enhancing Mechanical and Durability Properties of Coconut Shell Concrete Using Fly Ash. Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology. 2025; 15(02):19-24.
How to cite this URL:
Gaurav Pandey, Harsh Rathore. Enhancing Mechanical and Durability Properties of Coconut Shell Concrete Using Fly Ash. Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology. 2025; 15(02):19-24. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rtcet/article=2025/view=232904


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 02
Received 21/03/2025
Accepted 21/04/2025
Published 21/05/2025
Publication Time 61 Days
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