Engineering Properties of Lightweight Mortars Containing Wood Waste Particles

Abstract

Utilization of wood waste particles (WWP) is important for environmental and economic concern. This study focuses on the behavior of mortars having WWP with various amounts. Incorporation of WWP brings about the advantages such as decrease in the mass and cost of the mortar. In the present study, the proportions of the wood waste particles replacing the crushed sand in the mortars by volume were 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 %. Physical, mechanical and capillary absorption properties have been investigated. In addition, microstructure of the mortars has been examined with optical microscope. As compared to control specimen, dry bulk density decreased from 2.2 to 1.5 kg/m3, apparent porosity increased about 2 folds, and water absorption increased about 4 folds, for sample in which 40 % of crushed sand was replaced with WWP. Mechanical values reduced with increasing WWP amount. On the other hand, during compressive and flexural strength tests, samples containing WWP presented a gradual decrease in strength, thus they exhibited a more ductile behavior.