Effect of Adding Bamboo Fiber and Coconut Shell on the Mechanical Properties of Environmentally Friendly Concrete Blocks
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69855/sipil.v2i2.901Keywords:
bamboo fiber, coconut shell, sustainable concrete blocks,Abstract
Sustainable construction requires environmentally friendly concrete blocks that retain structural integrity while reducing carbon footprint. Purpose: This study investigated the combined effect of bamboo fiber reinforcement and coconut shell substitution on the mechanical properties, durability, and environmental performance of concrete blocks. Methods: 180 specimens (180 mm × 90 mm × 90 mm) were produced in a 3 × 4 factorial design with three bamboo fiber contents (0%, 0.5%, and 1.0% by weight of cement) and four coconut shell replacement ratios for coarse aggregate (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% by mass). Mechanical properties, water absorption, and accelerated weathering resistance were tested at 7, 14, and 28 days. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post hoc Tukey HSD tests (p < .05). Results: The optimal mix (0.5% bamboo fiber and 20% coconut shell) reached 28.4 ± 1.2 MPa compressive strength (15.4% above control), 3.2 ± 0.18 MPa split tensile strength (33.3% above control), 18.6 ± 0.8 GPa modulus of elasticity, and 22% lower water absorption. All mixes met ASTM C90-23a requirements, and the optimal mix retained 95.4 ± 1.8% of its strength after 1,200 hours of accelerated weathering. Embodied CO₂ was estimated to fall 12–15%. Implications: Bamboo fiber and coconut shell can serve as sustainable reinforcement and aggregate replacement in small- and medium-scale concrete block production. Conclusion: The 0.5% bamboo fiber and 20% coconut shell composition is a viable, environmentally responsive option with maintained or enhanced structural performance; field monitoring and cost analysis are recommended.
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