Design of Concrete Mixture Using Pili Nutshell as Partial Replacement to Coarse Aggregate for Slab

In the Philippines, solid waste management is a significant issue that is exacerbated by a lack of disposal locations, especially in urban areas. The annual production of 16 million tons of agricultural waste is the main cause of this issue. The researchers utilized agricultural waste, such as crushed pili nutshells (CPNS), as an alternative coarse aggregate for concrete building in order to remedy this. Developing a concrete mixture that uses CPNS instead of conventional approach was the aim of this study. Based on ASTM C143/C143M-12, ASTM C39/C39M-21, and ASTM C1585-13, the researchers performed slump, compressive strength, and water absorption to assess different concrete CPNS concentrations mixes with different CPNS concentrations respectively. The researchers found that the best results, meeting all required technical standards and cost analysis, were obtained when 10% of the normal coarse aggregate was replaced with CPNS. The 10% CPNS combination demonstrated respectable rates of water absorption and slump together with a compressive strength that is higher than the standard after 28 days in the curing process. A cost analysis that revealed the CPNS-based concrete mixture is less expensive than ordinary concrete. Based on these results, recommendations were given to establish CPNS disposal facilities, enhance treatment methods, and conduct more testing in order to optimize the use of CPNS in building. This study highlights the potential use of CPNS as a low-cost substitute for the production of concrete. By utilizing CPNS as substitute for coarse aggregate, the construction industry can contribute to waste reduction and management.