Development of concrete using wood aggregates

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to develop a concrete mix whose production would minimize pollution and resource consumption. Two types of wood aggregates, hemp hurds and rice husk, were used as partial replacements for conventional aggregates, which rendered the concrete lightweight, environmentally friendly, and inexpensive. Two types of cement were used, Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Calcium Sulfoaluminate (CSA). The resulting mixes displayed low mechanical strengths compared to traditional concrete; however, they shall be suitable for masonry applications. The outcome of this research was the production of a masonry block based on the most promising mix. This block may be of great benefit to the Lebanese construction industry in the future.