UTILIZATION OF RICE STRAW AND EGGSHELL AS ADDITIVES TO CONCRETE BRICKS

Abstract

This study investigates the development of eco-friendly concrete by replacing cement with waste materials such as eggshell powder and rice straw ash. This approach mitigates the environmental impact of cement production while promoting sustainability. Eggshell powder accelerates setting time, improves strength, and enhances water resistance, whereas rice straw ash contributes to overall strength enhancement. By utilizing readily available waste materials, this research supports cost-effective and sustainable construction practices, paving the way for greener building solutions. This study utilized a quantitative-descriptive research method with purposive sampling. A survey questionnaire was administered to evaluate the acceptability of rice straw ash and eggshell powder as additives in concrete bricks. The assessment focused on key factors, including material composition, procedural methodology, mechanical properties, durability, and overall presentation. To analyze differences in perception between the two respondent groups, a t-test was conducted, providing statistical insight into their evaluations. The investigation results indicate that the use of rice straw ash and eggshell powder as additives in concrete bricks was rated as "Acceptable" across key parameters, including material composition, procedural methodology, mechanical properties, durability, and presentation.  Civil Engineers provided an overall weighted mean rating of 3.17, with a variance of 0.018, a t-computed value of 0.7350, a degree of freedom of 8, and a t-critical value of 2.360 at a 0.05 significance level. Similarly, Concrete Building Manufacturers gave a slightly higher rating of 3.27, with a variance of 0.106, but with the same t-computed value, degree of freedom, and t-critical value.  Since the computed t-value is lower than the critical t-value, there is no statistically significant difference between the assessments of the two respondent groups. This confirms a general agreement on the acceptability of rice straw ash and eggshell powder as viable additives for concrete bricks. In conclusion, respondents provided valuable suggestions to enhance the effectiveness of the product. They recommended grinding the eggshells into a finer powder to improve the compressive strength and durability of the concrete bricks when combined with rice straw ash. This refinement could further optimize the material’s performance, making it a more viable and sustainable alternative in construction.