EFFECT OF BIOMASS ASH USE ON THE ENGINEERING PROPERTIES IN PRODUCING INTERLOCKING BLOCKS ON ELECTRIC POWER PLANTS

This work studies the properties of interlocking blocks that was modified by partial substitution of lateritic soil (LS) with biomass ash (BA) from electric power plant. And the effect of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) to LS ratio and BA content on the engineering properties of interlocking blocks was investigated. The OPC: LS ratio at 1:3, 1:5, 1:7, 1:9 and 10, 30 and 50 %v/v of BA were investigated on compressive strength, bulk dry density, water adsorption and thermal properties. The engineering properties of modified interlocking blocks were compared with interlocking blocks without replacement of BA. The results suggested that BA was a porous material with high water absorption. By adding BA to the interlocking blocks it showed the decrease of the compressive strength and bulk dry density of the material however their thermal resistance was enhanced as a result of void structure within interlocking blocks. All interlocking blocks passed standard of TCPS 02/2547 for interlocking blocks (nonload bearing type) except OPC: LS ratio of 1:9 with 50 %v/v of BA. At OPC: LS ratio of 1:3, 1:5 and 1:7 with 0, 10 and 30 %v/v of BA can use under outdoor and indoor site. While OPC: LS ratio of 1:9 with 50 %v/v of BA did not use in both outdoor and indoor site.