Effects Of Coal, Wood, And Crop Ashes on the Compressive Strength and Water Absorption of Eco-Friendly Building Blocks

Abstract

This study explored the use of coal ash, wood ash, and crop ashes as alternative materials in producing eco-friendly building blocks. The research aimed to determine whether these waste materials could serve as sustainable substitutes while maintaining acceptable physical and structural properties. Using a quasi-experimental research design, ash-based bricks were compared with commercially available bricks in terms of dimensions, moisture content, and compressive strength. Findings revealed that the ash-based bricks had dimensions comparable to commercial bricks, indicating that the materials were suitable for brick formation and molding. In terms of moisture content, the ash-based bricks met the acceptable standard range, suggesting good water retention and bonding properties during curing. Statistical analysis also showed a significant difference in moisture content between ash-based and commercial bricks. For compressive strength, the ash-based bricks demonstrated acceptable performance during the drop test; however, variations in strength were observed among the samples, indicating inconsistencies in material composition and curing conditions. Although some ash-based bricks performed well, commercial bricks exhibited more stable and reliable structural performance overall. Despite these limitations, the findings suggest that coal, wood, and crop ashes have potential as sustainable materials for construction applications. Overall, the study highlights the possibility of transforming agricultural and industrial waste into useful construction materials that may help reduce environmental waste while supporting sustainable and low-cost building practices. Further improvement in the production process is recommended to achieve more consistent structural performance and enhance the practical application of ash-based bricks in the construction industry.