Assessment of Sustainability of Alum Sludge as Partial Cement Replacement and Palm Kernel Shell as Partial Coarse Aggregate Replacement in Concrete

Sanuwar, Eva Selviana (2024) Assessment of Sustainability of Alum Sludge as Partial Cement Replacement and Palm Kernel Shell as Partial Coarse Aggregate Replacement in Concrete. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

This study explores the potential of incorporating palm kernel shell (PKS) and alum sludge (AS) as sustainable additives in concrete production, aiming to mitigate the environmental impact of waste materials from the palm oil industry and water treatment plants. The research investigates the mechanical properties and durability of concrete mixtures with varying proportions of PKS and AS, focusing on key factors such as workability, compressive strength, tensile strength, carbonation depth, and microstructural characteristics. The results indicate that a mix containing 15% PKS and 10% AS significantly enhances concrete performance, demonstrating improved workability, higher compressive and tensile strengths, and reduced water absorption compared to the control mix. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirms a denser microstructure in this optimized mix, which correlates with its superior durability. The study also finds that increasing the AS content beyond 10% negatively impacts workability and tensile strength, emphasizing the importance of optimizing the proportions of these additives. The problem addressed is the disposal challenges and environmental risks posed by PKS and AS, and the research aims to utilize these materials to contribute to sustainability goals by reducing landfill waste and the carbon footprint of construction materials. The study concludes that incorporating PKS and AS in concrete mixes presents a viable strategy for producing sustainable and durable construction materials. Further research is recommended to refine the optimal proportions, assess longterm performance under various environmental conditions, and validate these findings in real-world applications, thereby advancing sustainable construction practices and contributing to environmental conservation