Browsing by Author "Akankunda, Lindah"

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    Investigating the Effect of Wood Charcoal Dust as Partial Replacement for Cement in Plain Concrete.
    (Kabale University, 2024) Akankunda, Lindah
    The increasing demand for cement, driven by the current construction boom, has escalated its production, making it a critical component in concrete. However, the cement industry significantly depletes natural resources such as aggregates, consumes substantial energy, and contributes to environmental pollution. Utilizing by-products like Wood Charcoal Dust (WCD) and agricultural waste ashes offers a dual benefit: addressing disposal challenges and providing a sustainable alternative to cement in concrete production. Incorporating WCD as a partial replacement for cement can lower construction costs and promote environmental sustainability. This research investigates the impact of Wood Charcoal Dust (WCD) on the compressive strength of concrete. WCD was used as a partial substitute for cement, and its effects on concrete properties were analyzed. Concrete cubes measuring 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm were tested for compressive strength after water curing for 7, 14, and 28 days. The results were compared with conventional concrete (C20 mix), revealing notable improvements in compressive strength when WCD was incorporated. The optimum replacement percentage of cement with WCD was also determined. Cement was partially replaced with WCD at proportions of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight. Tests conducted included slump tests, compressive strength, durability (water absorption), and fresh density at varying WCD percentages. The findings indicated that the maximum compressive strength was achieved with a 5% WCD substitution. The slump test results showed a decrease in workability as the WCD content increased, and the compressive strength declined with higher WCD replacement levels. Chemical analysis revealed that WCD contains pozzolanic materials, with a combined SiO₂, Al₂O₃, and Fe₂O₃ content of 20.69%. In conclusion, replacing cement with 5% WCD provides the optimal balance, enhancing compressive strength while maintaining workability. This substitution demonstrates the potential of WCD as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective cement alternative for sustainable construction.