Rice Husk Ash/Recycled Low Density Polyethyelene Composites for Pavers’ Block Production

Abstract

The performance of Rice Husk Ash (RHA)/Recycled Low Density Polyethylene (water sachets) composites was investigated for its suitability for pavers’ block production and applications without using cement. The rice husk was properly dried, burnt in open air and collected for use. The raw materials were collected, sorted, and cleaned preparatory for use. The water sachets (LDPE) was melted using a steel pot on an open hearth furnace. Samples with RHA (0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25%), LDPE (100, 80, 75, 70, 65, 60 and 55%) and sand (20% constant) by weight were thoroughly mixed to ensure a homogeneous paste which was then poured into prepared moulds to produce the composite blocks (200×160×80 mm). Three samples of each batch were used to perform physical/durability, mechanical and surface morphological tests. The results for the physical tests shows that water absorption was 0.92%, thickness swelling 0.06%, and density 1.27 g/cm3. For the mechanical tests, the compressive, impact and flexural strengths were 0.81 N/mm2, 8.8 J/mm2 and 2.68 N/mm2 respectively. The surface morphology of the blocks was carried out to ascertain their integrity, and it indicated good distribution, and retention between the RHA particles and the resins. The results show that the blocks compare well with those used for light traffic and non-traffic pavements and this provides a good option for handling solid waste and converting waste to wealth.