Evaluation of mortar properties obtained through partial substitution of Portland cement by ashes of oil palm empty fruit bunch

Abstract

Currently, palm oil is a leader in production and consumption among commercial edible oils, with a growing world production that exceeds 66 million tons per year. It is estimated that the generation of residues from the burning of palm oil empty fruit bunches as fuel in the boilers corresponds to 5% in mass of the total of oil extracted. This work evaluated the mechanical properties resulting from the use of the empty fruit bunch ashes as a partial substitute of Portland cement in mortars in different contents in 1:3 and 1:6 mixes. Mortars obtained with the use of ash presented greater deformability, implying greater workability. The results obtained pointed to potential use of the ash as filler in mortars without loss on compressive strength for contents up to 10% in the 1:3 mix and 5% in the 1:6 mix. It was observed an increase in the void index and the water absorption capacity, with a proportional reduction of the flexural strength.