Investigating the Practicality of Incorporating Waste Expanded Polystyrene Beads and Rice Husk in Lightweight Concrete Blends
摘要
This experimental study investigates the potential of utilizing sustainable waste expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads and rice husk as a lightweight aggregate in concrete mixtures. As the construction industry seeks sustainable alternatives to traditional materials, the incorporation of EPS beads derived from recycled sources and rice husk were anticipated as a promising solution. The primary objective of this research is to assess the mechanical performance of lightweight concrete formulations containing varying proportions of waste EPS beads and rice husks. The study employs a systematic approach, beginning with the characterization of the waste EPS beads to determine their physical and chemical properties. Subsequently, concrete mixtures were designed by substituting conventional aggregates with different percentages of EPS beads and rice husk. The mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and density, were evaluated to assess the structural integrity and performance of the lightweight concrete. Preliminary findings suggest that the inclusion of sustainable waste EPS beads and rice husk could significantly reduce the density of concrete, resulting in a lightweight material with acceptable mechanical properties for certain applications. The study aims to provide insights into the feasibility of implementing such sustainable practices in the construction industry, contributing to the development of sustainable building materials.