THE USE OF RICE HUSK ASH AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT FOR CEMENT IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF INTERLOCKING BLOCKS

ABSTRACT This study investigates the feasibility of utilizing rice husk ash (RHA) as a partial cement replacement in the production of interlocking blocks. The research aims to examine the effects of RHA on the compressive strength of RHA amended concrete interlock and to reduce the environmental impact of cement production, decrease construction costs, and promote sustainable building practices. Rice husk ash (RHA) is a versatile and sustainable material with various applications. A series of experiments were conducted to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of interlocking blocks containing varying percentages of RHA (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) as a cement substitute. The results shows that compressive strength of RHA amended concrete generally decreases with RHA addition but the optimal RHA content of 10% gave a characteristic strength of 40.68 N/mm2 at 28 days. This result suggests, other raw materials containing higher calcium oxide and alumina could be used to improve the strength property of RHA amended concrete. RHA improves water absorption, durability of the interlocking block and serves as a potential environmental friendly admixture .