Application of Corn Husk Ash as Partial Replacement for Cement in the Production of
Interlocking Paving Stones
Raheem, A.A., Adedokun, S.I.*, Uthman, Q.A., Adeyemi, A.O. and Oyeniyi, O.M.
Department of Civil Engineering, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
*Corresponding author’s email address: siadedokun@lautech.edu.ng
DOI:10.36108/laujoces/8102/10(0130)
Abstract
As a way of converting agro-wastes into useful materials for the construction industry, this research considered the
application of corn husk ash (CHA) as partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in the production of
interlocking paving stones. The study investigated the oxide composition of CHA to ascertain its suitability as a pozzolanic material. Some properties of paving stones with CHA as a replacement for OPC were evaluated. The results showed that CHA is a good pozzolana having satisfied the required standards. The compressive strength of the specimens, with replacement levels ranging from 5 to 25% cured for periods of 3-56 days, was lower at early curing age but improved significantly at later age. Five percent (5%) replacement level showed increased strength compared to 0% CHA regardless of curing age. Density decreased with increasing CHA content, water absorption increased with CHA content, while abrasion resistance decreased with CHA substitution. The test results revealed that CHA paving stones at 5% replacement can attain higher strength than the conventional ones at longer curing periods due to its pozzolanic characteristics.
Keywords: Corn husk ash (CHA), Pozzolana, Cement, Oxide composition, Interlocking paving stones.