Utilization of Palm Fruit Fibers as Constituent Materials for Hand Mould Clay Bricks

Abstract

The production process of palm oil generates a huge amount of waste. As Nigeria is one of the largest producing countries, the fruit fiber wastes from palm oil processing have received a low level of waste management and have been a long-term environmental concern. This study is focused on recovery of the palm fruit fibers and its utilization as a constituent material for locally hand mold clay bricks. Varying percentages (1% to 3%) of palm fruit fiber was introduced into local hand mold clay. The bricks produced were tested for optimum moisture content and dry density. Some preliminary tests such as natural moisture content determination (wet and dry), Specific gravity test, Particle size distribution test (Sieve analysis), Atterberg limit test, Compaction test (Standard Proctor), Water absorption test, and Compressive strength test was carried out. The results show a decrease in optimum moisture content as the percentage of the palm fruit fibers increased from 1% to 3% in the soil sample while the maximum dry density increased. With the addition of 1% to 3% of the palm fruit fibers and the mix sun-dried, noticeable improvement in the compaction characteristics of the soil sample was observed. It can be deduced from the results that for a good construction clay soil, the lower the moisture content, the higher the dry density and the better the quality of bricks. Production of clay bricks with palm fruit fibers could serve as an economic substitute for the growing cost of sandcrete blocks.