Assessing the Resilience of Palm-Kernel–Based Concrete to Sodium Chloride and Sulphuric Acid Attack

Abstract

This study seeks to address this gap and contribute to knowledge by expanding the application of this sustainable concrete type to include its durability and resilience in NaCl and H2SO4 containing conditions. The resilience of palm kernel-based concrete to environments containing sodium chloride (NaCl) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4) solutions is evaluated in this study. These solutions when in contact with concrete may compromise the performance of the concrete. Therefore, in the bid to include palm kernel shell-based concrete as a sustainable alternative material to traditional concrete material, it is essential to assess its durability in different exposure conditions. Palm kernel shell aggregates replaced 0 to 20 % of natural coarse aggregates and the fresh and hardened properties of the resulting concrete were evaluated. Additionally, the different concrete specimens produced were exposed to 5% NaCl and 5% H2SO4 solutions for a period of 7, 14 and 28 days. The change in mass and compressive strength after these periods were evaluated. Experimental results indicated that when exposed to the solutions, the PKS-based concrete experienced mass loss, with sulfuric acid causing greater deterioration (6.13% to 26.65%) mass loss) than sodium chloride (0.22% to 0.54%). Compressive strength reductions followed a similar trend, with the H₂SO₄-exposed samples showing more significant strength degradation.