VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY

JNANA SANGAMA, BELAGAVI – 590 018, KARNATAKA, INDIA

A PROJECT REPORT
ON
“EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE EFFECTS
OF INTERLOCKING CONCRETE PAVER UNIT
BY INCORPORATING SAW DUST WASTE”
Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING
In
CIVIL ENGINEERING
Submitted By
Name USN
P.S MANOJ KUMAR 4VP18CV412
MITHUN.B 4VP17CV027
HARSHAVARDHANA M.S 4VP17CV011

Under the Guidance of

Mrs. SUREKHA T
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil Engineering
Vivekananda College of Engineering & Technology

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

(Accredited by National Board of Accreditation)
VIVEKANANDA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
& TECHNOLOGY
[A Unit of Vivekananda Vidyavardhaka Sangha, Puttur (R)]
Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University and Approved by
AICTE New Delhi & Govt. of Karnataka
Nehru Nagara, Puttur – 574 203, DK, Karnataka, India
July 2021
 VIVEKANANDA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING & TECHNOLOGY
[A Unit of Vivekananda Vidyavardhaka Sangha, Puttur (R)]
Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University and Approved by AICTE New Delhi & Govt. of Karnataka
Nehru Nagara, Puttur – 574 203, DK, Karnataka, India

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

(Accredited by National Board of Accreditation)

CERTIFICATE
Certified that the project work entitled “Experimental Study On the Effects of
Interlocking Concrete Paver Unit by Incorporating Saw Dust Waste ” is carried out by
Mr.P S Manoj Kumar, Mr. Mithun B and Mr. Harshavardhana M S bearing USN’S
4VP18CV412, 4VP17CV027 and 4VP17CV011 respectively bonafide student of
Vivekananda College of Engineering & Technology, Puttur in partial fulfillment for the
award of Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering of the Visvesvaraya
Technological University, Belagavi during the year 2020–21. It is certified that all
corrections/ suggestions indicated for Internal Assessment have been incorporated in the
report deposited in the departmental library.

The project report has been approved as it satisfies the academic requirements in
respect of project work prescribed for the said Degree.

Signature of the Guide Signature of the HOD Signature of the Principal

Prof. Surekha T Dr. Anand V R Dr. Mahesh Prasanna K
Assistant Professor HOD-Dept of Civil Principal
VCET, Puttur VCET, Puttur VCET, Puttur

EXTERNAL VIVA
Name of the Examiners Signature with date
1…………………………….............. ....................................

2…………………………….............. ....................................
 DECLARATION

We, P S ManojKumar(4VP18CV0412), Mithun B (4VP17CV027) and

Harshavardhana M S (4VP17CV011) students of B.E. 8th Semester in Civil
Engineering, Vivekananda College of Engineering & Technology, Puttur, hereby
declare that the project work entitled “Experimental Study On the Effects of
Interlocking Concrete Paver Unit by Incorporating Saw Dust Waste” has been
carried out by us at VCET, Puttur, under the guidance of Mrs. Surekha T Assistant
Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Vivekananda College of Engineering &
Technology, Puttur, and submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award
of degree in Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering by Visvesvaraya
Technological University, Belagavi during the academic year 2020-2021.

Name of the students USN Signature with date

P S MANOJ KUMAR 4VP18CV412

MITHUN B 4VP17CV027

HARSHAVARDHANA M S 4VP17CV011

Date:
Place: VCET, Puttur.
 ABSTRACT
This paper experimentally investigates the potential use of poplar sawdust as replacement
material to sand has influence on the properties of the concrete. The result of the analysis
carried out shows that the workability of concrete with partial replacement of sand with
sawdust reduces at constant water-cement ratio. While the use of sawdust in concrete at
high percentage of sawdust replacement of sand affected the strength of the concrete as
there was a decrease in the strength value.

Partial replacement of the sand in varying proportions (0, 5, 10 & 15%) of saw dust. The
test were carried out after 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after production. The water/cement ratio
increased as percentage of saw dust increases. As the percentage of saw dust increases in
the mix, the compressive strength decreases.
Finally conclusion our project is the Compressive strengths of the paving units with the
increasing saw dust replacements were found to decrease. A maximum of 5% saw dust
replacement is recommended where moderate compressive is desired while an optimum
of 10% can be used where high compressive strength is not a requirement
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We take this opportunity to express our deep heartfelt gratitude to all those people who
have helped us in the successful completion of the project.

First and foremost, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to our guide, Mrs.
Surekha T for providing excellent guidance, encouragement and inspiration throughout
the project work. Without his invaluable guidance, this work would never have been a
successful one.

We would like to express my sincere gratitude to our Head of the Department of Civil
Engineering, Dr. Anand V R for his guidance and inspiration.

We would like to thank our Principal, Dr. Mahesh Prasanna K for providing all the
facilities and a proper environment to work in the college campus.

We are thankful to all the teaching and non-teaching staff members of Civil Engineering
Department for their help and needed support rendered throughout the project.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page No.

List of figures I
List of tables II

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUTION 01
1.1 General 02
1.2 Objectives 03
1.3 Need for Study 03
1.4 Application Areas 03
CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW 04
2.1 General 05
2.2 Summary 08
CHAPTER 3 MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY 09
3.1 General 10
3.2 Materials 10
3.2.1 Cement 10
3.2.2 Fine Aggregate 10
3.2.3 Coarse Aggregate 10
3.2.4 Water 10
3.2.5 Saw Dust 10
3.3 Tests on Coarse Aggregate 11
3.3.1Determination of specific gravity of Coarse Aggregate 11
3.3.2 Sieve Analysis Method 11
3.4 Tests on Fine Aggregate 12
3.4.1 Determination of specific gravity of sand 12
3.4.2 Sieve Analysis Method 12
3.5 Tests on Cement 14
3.5.1 Specific gravity of cement 14
3.6 Grade Designation of Paver Blocks 15
3.7 Concrete Mix Design 16
3.8 Methodology 16
3.8.1 Mix Proportion 18
3.8.2 Preparation of test specimens 18
3.8.3 Test procedure 20
CHAPTER 4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 21
4.1 General 22
4.2 Compressive strength 22
4.3 Density 23
4.4 Water Absorption 25
CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSION 27
5.1 Conclusion 28
5.2 Scope of future work 28
REFERENCES 29
APPENDIX-1 33
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. TITLE Page No.

Fig 3.1 Collection of Saw Dust 14

Fig 3.2 Pouring of the concrete 15
Fig 4.1 Testing of Interlocking Units 18
Fig 4.2 Compressive Strength in N/mm2 19
Fig 4.3 Bulk Density in Kg/m3 20
Fig 4.4 Sieves 21
Fig 4.5 Pycnometer 23
Fig 4.6 Sieves 23
Fig 4.7 Gradation Curve of Fine Aggregate 24
Fig 4.8 Density Bottle 26

I
 LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Title Page No.

Table 3.6 Material Proportioning 15

Table 4.1 Compressive strength in N/mm2 19
Table 4.2 Bulk Density in Kg/m3 20
Table 4.3 Particle size distribution of coarse aggregate 23
Table 4.4 Physical properties of Fine Aggregate 24
Table 4.5 Tests on Grading of Fine Aggregate 24
Table 4.6 Physical properties of Cement 26
Table 4.7 Mix Proportion for Normal Concrete 27

II
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON THE EFFECTS OF THE INTERLOCKING CONCRETE PAVER UNITS BY INCORPORPORATING
SAW DUST WASTE

INTRODUCTION

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Chapter-1

INTRODUCTION

1.1General
The increasing demand for high performance sustainable materials in the construction
industry, which represents a shift towards sustainable ecofriendly and green practices,
possess a huge threat to the construction industry.To achieve environmental sustainability in
construction industry, it is imperative that the design, selection of materials, construction and
maintenance of concrete, concrete products should reflect environment friendliness. Globally
it is a common knowledge that construction industry relies heavily on conventional materials
such as cement, coarse aggregate and sand, which continue to possess a huge economic,
environmental and developing costs especially to the developing countries and also
continues to contribute to the depletion of natural aggregates in various regions of the world.

With the emergence of the sustainable technologies which is driven largely by regulations
and increasing demand for innovations and cost reduction, international organizations,
shortage of landfills and scarcity of natural aggregates and environmental issues, the
construction industry is increasingly embracing the use of environmental wastes in concrete.
Other responsible factors include low level awareness about their potential in concrete, and
their properties to improve the properties of the concrete, low research and development on
these materials, poor development and support of the industries which would utilize the
materials, poor development and support of the industries which would utilize the materials
in the production of concrete and concrete products. Sadly there is low usage of these local
materials in the construction materials which is attributed to several factors such as lack of
reliable data on the engineering properties of these materials in concrete and concrete
products.

Concrete paving block is versatile, aesthetically attractive, functional and cost effective and
requires little or no maintenance if correctly manufactured and laid. Paver block is solid,
unreinforced precast cement concrete paving units used in the surface course of pavements,
Interlocking concrete technology has been introduced in India in construction, a decade ago,
for specific requirement like footpaths, parking areas, gardens etc.

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1.2 Objectives
Paver block paving is versatile, aesthetically attractive, functional, and cost effective and
requires little or no maintenance if correctly manufactured and placed. The study of alternate
material which can replace partially the necessity of sand or other constituent material becomes
the first area of research of the study. Based on this study of literature and its review, the
following objectives were considered for the study.

1. To study the density and compressive strength of the paver.

2. Study the influence of industrial waste in interlocking paver unit.
3. Comparison of the properties of interlocking paver unit and the normal interlocking
paver.

1.3Need for study

The following are the need for the study

1) To study the use of waste in concrete.

2)To study about their utilization in non-load bearing applications where compressive
strength is not a requirement such as outdoor pedestrian walkway in a building environment
and low traffic pedestrian walkways especially in rural area.

1.4 Application Areas

The following are the applications of interlocking paver units

1)Non-Traffic Areas: Building Premises, Footpaths, Malls, Pedestrian Plaza, Landscapes,

Monuments Premises, Premises, Public Gardens/Parks, Shopping Complexes, Bus Terminus
Parking areas and Railway Platform, etc.

2) Light Traffic: Car Parks, Office Driveway, Housing Colony Roads, Office/Commercial
Complexes, Rural Roads, Residential Colony Roads, Farm Houses, etc.
3) Medium Traffic: Boulevard, City Streets, Small Market Roads, Intersections/Rotaries on
Low Volume Roads, Utility Cuts on Arteries, Service Stations, etc.
4) Heavy and Very Heavy Traffic: Container/Bus Terminals, Ports/Dock Yards, Mining
Areas, Roads in Industrial Complexes, Heavy-Duty Roads on Expansive Soils, Bulk Cargo
Handling Areas, Factory Floors and Pavements, Airport Pavement, etc.

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LITERATURE REVIEW

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Chapter 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 General

The interlocking bricks are more popularly used in many foreign countries as an alternative
to conventional bricks for sustainable housing. It is being always challenge for researchers to
make interlocking brick light weight, low cost and improve the performance against
aggressive environment. Interlocking Concrete Tiles are essentially unreinforced precast
modular concrete units used in the construction of pavements for a wide variety of purposes.
Quite often these units are given fair-finished sides and wearing surfaces to improve their
beauty and appeal.

Adakai et.al (2018) studied uses of sawdust as admixture in production of low cost and
light-weight hollow sand Crete blocks.Research work on the use of sawdust as admixture in
production of hollow sand Crete blocks was carried out in order to investigate a possible
solution to the problems. Production of sandcrete blocks were made by partial replacement
of sand with a varying proportion (10%, 20%, 30% and 40%) of sawdust. Increase in the
replacement level also increases the water ratio used. Attempt made at using 50%
replacement of sand with sawdust was not successful as there the bonding was very poor.
The research work confirms that percentage sawdust content increases in the mix, the
compressive strength decreases. But, for the blocks manufactured with 10% replacement
level however, the sawdust replacement did not appear to have a significant effect on the
compressive strength of the sandcrete blocks. The water /cement ratio increases as the
percentage of sawdust increases. At 10% sawdust replacement, there is about 10% reduction
in weight and 3% reduction in production cost. To achieve a better result in the use of
sawdust for sandcrete blocks production, the percentage replacement of sand should not be
more than 10%.

Ruhal et al. (2018) studied performance of sawdust concrete at elevated temperature. The
results obtained, and the observations made in this study conclude that sawdust concrete
have low workability having slump in the range 30mm–40mm. Density of sawdust concrete
is less as compared to normal concrete. Among the three-mix ratio, the 1:1 ratio performed

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the best result in terms of strength gain. The sawdust concrete with 1:1 mix proportion
exhibited best performance in terms of fire resistance, the more the sawdust content lower
was the fire resistance. So, it is regarded as light weight concrete with a satisfactory strength
and elevated temperature performance.

Eje et.al (2017) studied design standards for the production of effective interlocking
concrete tiles using pit gravel as coarse aggregates. From the values obtained from particle
size and specific gravity tests, several concrete mixes were designed using specific
characteristic concrete strength of 20 N/mm2, 25 N/mm2, 30N/mm2,35 N/mm2 and
40N/mm2,standard deviation of 4 N/mm2 and slump ranges 30-60mm.The proportioning was
done by weight. After the trial mixes were cast and their slumps recorded, adjustments were
made with respect to water and cement content per mould. From these adjustments, samples
were caste for to be tested after curing for 28 days. As the percentage of Pit Gravel increases,
workability increases at the same water/cement ratio. Interlocking concrete tile producers
were considered to substitute granites with local pit gravel up to 40% level since the
compressive strength of the concrete produced at this substitution level is still within the
acceptable limit of structural concrete.

Malavika et.al (2017) studied design of Interlocking Block and Replacement of M-Sand by
concrete roof tile waste. In trial 1, mix design was done and the ratio obtained was
1:1.54:2.51.Since this ratio cannot be adopted according to clause 7.1.1 IS 2185 (Part
1):2005 and analyzed that the water content was not sufficient for providing workable mix.
In trial 2, 4 cubes of size 15cm x 15cm were cast in the mix proportions of 1:2:4 and 1:3:6
using 53 grade cement, 6 mm coarse aggregate and M-sand.Depending upon certain
considerations, a suitable interlocking block has been designed. Interlocking blocks were
cast successfully as per the code 2185:2005 (part 1) in the mould made of mild steel.
Compressive strength of interlocking block was found greater than that of ordinary solid
block of approximately same size and components. Compressive strength of interlocking
block and solid block obtained were 5.45MPa and 2.05MPa respectively.

Ruhal et.al(2017) studied properties of sawdust concrete were investigated based on a set of
experiments. Sawdust concrete have low workability having slump in the range of 30 to 40
mm. Density of sawdust concrete is less as compared to normal concrete hence it can be
regarded as light weight concrete. Among the three mix ratios, the 1:1 ratio performed the
best result in terms of strength gain. Despite lower strength gain, the concrete with 1:3 mix
proportions exhibited the best performance in terms of heat transfer; the more the sawdust

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content the lower was the heat transfer. Significance outcome of study was that sawdust
material can be used in the construction industry as ecofriendly material to environment.

Sojobi et al(2016) studied the performance of ecofriendly concrete light weight interlocking
concrete paver units incorporating saw dust wastes and laterite as an alternative lightweight
fine aggregate and cementitious material respectively in ecofriendly light weight
interlocking concrete paving unit (ICPU) using a mix ratio of 1:2:4.The light weight saw
dust and laterite were studied due to their abundant availability as an industrial waste and
cheap local construction material. Compressive strengths of 6.02-7.57N/mm2 and 3.66-4.52
N/mm2 at 5 and 10 % saw dust replacements with bulk density ranges of 1756.62-
1810.9kg/m3 and 1522.89-1532.4 kg/m3 respectively which exceeded the minimum
compressive strengths requirement of 3.45 N/mm2 in non-load bearing concrete applications.
The sawdust wastes and laterite led to the cost savings of approximately 7 with 10% laterite
replacement of cement and 10% sawdust replacement of sand.A maximum of 5% sawdust
replacement of sand is recommended for where moderate compressive strength is desired
while an optimum of 10% can be used where high compressive strength is not a requirement.

Xing et.al (2015) investigated effect of wood Waste in Concrete Blocks Made by
Vibrocompression.The substitution of sand by wood waste was used for preparation of
concrete block. The introduction of a varying proportion (30, 40, 50 and 60 %) of poplar
sawdust in the concrete has a significant influence on its thermo physical and mechanical
behavior. The study of the incorporation of poplar sawdust in concrete made by vibro
compaction showed that it is possible to develop wood concrete blocks with a mechanical
strength greater than 6 Mpa and to decrease weight.

Dilip et.al (2014) studied the effects of introducing the cost between sand used concrete
block and sawdust used concrete block. For making the concrete blocks, coarse aggregate,
fine aggregate, cement, water and sawdust was used. M20 grade of concrete was designed by
using 10%, 15% and 20% of sawdust instead of sand. Based on the limited study carried out
with the increase in the percentage replacement of saw dust, the strength as well as
compressive strength was increased at the initial ages. Moreover with the use of saw dust,
the weight of concrete reduces, thus making the concrete lighter which can be used as a light
weight construction material in many civil engineering purposes. The unit density of the
concrete block was tested and has proved that saw dust Concrete can be used as a Structural
Concrete at suitable replacement percentage and also affects the cost of the construction.

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Tomas et.al (2014) studied effect of Sawdust as Fine Aggregate in Concrete Mixture for
Building Construction to develop an acceptable concrete mixture with sawdust particles as
substitute to fine aggregate. This experimental research tries to implicate that sawdust-
cement-gravel mix has an equal advantage than the standard mix of cement-sand-gravel.
Both mixed in proportions classified as Class A mix with the proportions of 1:2:4 of cement,
a fine aggregate, and a coarse aggregate respectively. Analysis showed unit weights also
varied since after weighing two control samples, the sawdust-cement-gravel mix showed an
almost 10% reduction of weight and since floor slabs composed almost 40% of a structure’s
weight. The sawdust-cement-gravel specimens were being held together by tiny wood
particles. This might present a bonus feature with regards to sawdust; it might help keep
components in place during collapses.

2.2 Summary
From the above literature, it can be observed that many researchers continued their
experimental investigations on the effect of saw dust on concrete. Some researchers have
opinion that the use of saw dust enhances the strength of concrete (Dilip et.al, 2014), but
some others states that saw dust shows only reduction of weight by decreasing the strength
(Tomas et.al, 2014). This necessities the further research on these materials before using for
the construction. Almost all researchers mentioned that sawdust specimens were being held
together and it might help keep components in place during collapses and concrete paver
units incorporating saw dust wastes as an alternative lightweight fine aggregate and
cementitious material respectively in ecofriendly light weight interlocking concrete paving
unit.

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MATERIALS
AND
METHODOLOGY

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Chapter 3

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY

3.1 General
This chapter deals with the materials used in the present work such as cement, aggregates,
and also the procedure involved in casting of test specimens and testing of specimens. It also
includes the various parameters used in the present work.

3.2 Materials
3.2.1 Cement

Ordinary Portland cement OPC (53) grade of cement from a single batch was used for the
entire work and care has been taken to store it in air tight container to prevent it from being
affected by the atmospheric and monsoon moisture and humidity.

3.2.2 Fine Aggregate

The river sand passing through 4.75 mm sieve and retained on 600 μm sieve, conforming to
Zone I as per IS: 383-1970 is used in the present study. The sand is free from clay, silt and
organic impurities. The aggregate was tested for its physical requirements such as Gradation,
Fineness modulus, and Specific Gravity and Bulk modulus in accordance with IS: 2386-
1963.

3.2.3 Coarse Aggregate

Throughout the investigations, a crushed coarse aggregate of 20 mm down size procured

from the local crushing plant was used. The aggregate was tested for its physical
requirements such as Gradation, Fineness modulus, Specific Gravity and Bulk density etc. in
accordance with IS: 2386-1963 and IS: 383- 1970.

3.2.4 Water
Fresh potable water with pH value less than 7 free from organic matter and oil which is
available in the college campus is used in mixing the concrete. Quantity of water required for

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current study. The rest of the materials for preparation of the concrete mix were taken by
weigh batching.

3.2.5 Saw dust

Sawdust used, as a replacement for sand (fine aggregate), was obtained as an industrial by-
product from a local industry in master plannery at Puttur. The sawdust used was unburnt to
avoid air pollution and release of hazardous substances such as chromium, arsenic, iron,
copper and zinc which would have been released to the atmosphere when incinerated.

3.3 Test on coarse aggregate

3.3.1 Determination of specific gravity of coarse aggregate

The specific gravity of the soil is defined as the ratio of the weight of the given volume of
the solid soil particle to the weight of an equal volume of distilled water at a room
temperature.

3.3.2 Sieve analysis method

Figure 3.1 Sieves

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Table 3.1 Particle size distribution of Coarse Aggregate

Sl.No. IS Sieve Size % Passing for Zone Gradation Remarks

(mm) II coarse aggregate requirement as per
as per IS 383:1970 IS: 383 (1970) for
grade II
1 40 100 100 The Sample confirms
the graded aggregate
2 20 100 95-100
as per IS:383 (1970)
3 10 46.89 25-55

4 4.75 6.17 0-10

3.4 Tests on fine aggregate:

3.4.1 Determination of specific gravity of sand by pycnometer method

Figure 3.2 Pycnometer

The specific gravity of the soil is defined as the ratio of the weight of the given volume of
the solid soil particle to the weight of an equal volume of distilled water at a room
temperature.

3.4.2 Sieve analysis method

Sieve analysis test was conducted to determine the distribution of aggregate particles by size
within a given sample.

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Figure 3.3 Sieve Analysis Test

Table 3.2 Physical properties of Fine Aggregate

Sl.No. Characteristics Test Result

1 Specific Gravity 2.62

2 Fineness modulus 3.23

3 Water absorption (%) 1.45

4 Zone II

5 Bulk Density(kg/m3)
• Dry loose 1468
• Dry Compact 1732

Table 3.3 Tests on Grading of Fine Aggregate

Sl.No. IS Sieve Size % Passing % Passing for Remarks
obtained Zone II fine
aggregate as per
IS 383:1970

1 4.75mm 98.45 90-100

2 2.36mm 95.4 75-100 Conforming

3 1.18mm 74.65 55-90 to Zone II

Grading
4 600 microns 44.5 35-59
Requirement
5 300 microns 9.38 8-30
6 150 microns 0.2 0-10

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Fineness Modulus=3.23

GRADATION CURVE OF FINE

AGGREGATE
Percentage of Passing(%)

120
100 95.4 98.45
80
74.65
60
40 44.5

20
9.38
0 0.2
0.01 0.1 1 10

SieveSize (mm)

Figure 3.4 Gradation Curve of Fine Aggregate

3.5 Test on cement

3.5.1 Specific gravity of cement

Specific gravity of cement is defined as the ratio between the weight of a given volume of
material and weight of an equal volume of water. One of the methods used to determine the
specific gravity is by the use of the liquid kerosene with does not react with the cement.

Figure 3.5 Density Bottle

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Ordinary Portland cement of 53 grade was used in the present study which
conforming to IS 8112-1967. The test results are tabulated in Table 3.1.

Table 3.4 Physical properties of cement

Sl.No. Characteristics Unit Test Result Requirements as

per IS:4031(part
4,5)
1 Fineness
• Retained on 90 micron IS % 5.3 10.00%(Max)
sieve
• Blaine’s air Permeability
m2/kg 300 225.00 (Min)
2 Setting time
• Initial set min 38 30 (Min)
• Final set min 480 600 (Max)
3 Standard consistency % 31 -
4 Specific Gravity - 3.1 -
5 Compressive strength
• 7days MPa 34 33(Min)
• 28days MPa 49 43(Min)

3.6 Grade Designation of Paver Blocks

Recommended grades of paver blocks to be used for construction of pavements having
different traffic categories are given in Table 3.5.

Table 3.5 - Recommended grades of paving blocks for different traffic categories as per
Indian Standard (IS 15658:2006)
Sl.No. Grade Designation of Specified Compressive Traffic Category Recommended
Paver Block Strength of Paver Minimum
Blocks at 28 Days Paver Block
(N/mm2) Thickness(mm)
1 M-30 30 Non Traffic 50

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2 M-35 35 Light Traffic 60

3 M-40 40 Medium Traffic 80
4 M-45 45 Heavy Traffic 100
5 M-50 50 Very Heavy 120
Traffic

Since zero slump concrete is used in production of paver blocks, the quality of blocks
produced will depend upon various parameters like the capacity of compaction and vibration
of machine, grade of cement used, water content, quality of aggregates used, their gradation
and mix design adopted, additives used, handling equipment employed, curing methods
adopted, level of supervision, workmanship and quality control achieved, etc.

3.7 Concrete Mix Design

In this experimental research work, to study the effect of saw dust in micro level, higher
grade of concrete i.e. M40 was selected. The mix was designed as per the guidelines
recommended in IS 10262-2009. Based on many trial mixes, final mix was selected with
total binder content of 425kg/m3 and water –cement ratio of 0.4. To ensure the required
workability, water reducing agent superplasticizer of 0.75% of total binder content was used.
The final mix proportion and required quantities of constituent material for control mix are
given in Table 3.6. Other mixes and in the research with their mix designation and quantities
per cubic meter.

Table 3.6 Mix Proportion for Normal Concrete

Cement Fine Aggregate Coarse Aggregate Water

425 687 1134 170

1 1.62 2.67 0.4

3.8 Methodology

The following are steps involved:

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MIXING OF CONCRETE

LITERATURE SURVEY

TESTING OF THE MATERIALS

PREPARATION OF MIX DESIGN AS PER IS:

10262-2009

MATERIAL PROPORTIONING

POURING OF CONCRETE INTO MOULD AND

DRYING

REMOVAL OF CONCRETE MOULD AND

CURING

DETERMINATION OF PAVER PROPERTIES

Literature Survey is studied to get information about the study of the interlocking paving
units by using saw dust as a replacement for fine aggregate. The materials such as saw dust,
coarse aggregate, fine aggregate and cement were to be brought. Preliminary tests on the
materials were to be conducted.

Figure 3.6 Collection of Saw Dust from Master Plannery, Puttur

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3.8.1 Mix Proportion

In this experimental research work, to study the effect of addition of saw dust in various
proportions (0, 5, 10 and 15%) in the interlocking paver units, higher grade of concrete i.e.
M40 was selected. The mix was designed as per the guidelines recommended in IS 10262-
2009. Based on many trial mixes, final mix was selected with total binder content of
425kg/m3 and water –cement ratio of 0.4.

Table 3.7 Material Proportioning

Sl. No. Mix Types of Mixes

Designations
1 Standard Mix Cement +Fine Aggregate +Coarse Aggregate (M 40)

2 M1 Cement+ Fine Aggregate (95%) + Coarse Aggregate +

Saw Dust (5%)
3 M2 Cement+ Fine Aggregate (90%) +Coarse Aggregate+ Saw
Dust (10%)

4 M3 Cement+ Fine Aggregate (85%) +Coarse Aggregate+ Saw

Dust (15%)

3.8.2 Preparation of test specimens

The inner surfaces of the moulds were coated with grease and were placed. The required
quantity of cement, sand, coarse aggregates and saw dust were weighed for the appropriate
proportions. The materials were mixed first in dry conditions. Demoulding was done after 24
hours.Removal of the specimen from the mould and is cured for a period of 7 and
28days.Specimens were safely demoulded causing no damage to the specimen and
immediately concrete specimens were kept in curing tank completely immersed in water for
curing until the time of testing. Interlocking paving units were cured for 7and 28days.

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Figure 3.7 Pouring of the Concrete

Density, compressive strength and water absorption was found out using paver blocks.
Totally 36 paver blocks were cast with 6 blocks for each ratio. Out of 36 paver blocks 24
blocks were used to find the average density and compressive strength. Before subjecting the
specimens to compression test, each specimen was weighed to find out the density.
Remaining 12 blocks were used to obtain the water absorption.

Figure 3.8 Demoulding

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3.8.3 Test procedure

Density of paver blocks is calculated by dividing the mass by the volume of paver block.
After weighing the paver blocks, compressive strength test was performed using
Compression Testing Machine of capacity 2000 kN. The compressive strength is the ratio of
the maximum load to the surface area of paver block. Three paver blocks were tested for
each mix ratio and the average of three specimens is taken as the compressive strength. In
the water absorption test, the dry weight of paver block was measured and noted as weight
(W1). Then the paver blocks were completely immersed in water at room temperature for 24
hours. After 24 hours the paver blocks are removed from the water, allowed to drain and any
traces of water were wiped out with damp cloth. Then this weight was noted as the wet
weight (W2). From the increase in weight of the specimens, water absorption values were
calculated.

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RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

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Chapter-4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.1 General
In this chapter the results of compressive strength and bulk density of interlocking paver
units are tabulated.

4.2 Compression Strength

Compression test is determining the desirable characteristics properties of concrete.
Compression test is common test for hardened concrete. All properties are qualitatively
depends on compressive strength. Large variations in the results of compression tests were
mainly due to casting of the specimens and loading as well. Compression testing machine is
used to test the interlocking paving units. The compressive strength results for various
interlocking units with various percentage of replacement of sawdust with fine aggregates,
after 7 and28 days of curing, is presented in Table 4.1 and comparison is done using Figure
4.2.

Figure 4.1 Testing of interlocking units.

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Table 4.1 Compressive Strength in N/mm2

Replacement Levels Compressive Compressive Strength at 28

2
of Fine Aggregate Strength at 7 days (N/mm )
2
with Saw dust (%) days (N/mm )

Standard Mix 28.5 42.75

M1 27.5 40.52

M2 26.4 38.25

M3 23.2 36.50

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF PAVER BLOCK

45 42.75
40.52
Compressive Strength in N/mm2

40 38.25
36.5
35
28.527.5
30 26.4
25 23.2
Standard Concrete
20 M1
15 M2
10 M3
5
0
CS at 7 days CS at 28 days
Number of Curing Days

Figure 4.2 Compressive Strength in N/mm2

Compression strength test on interlock was done for control mix, 5%, 10% and 15% saw
dust as replacement of sand for 7 and 28 days of curing. Results are presented in Table 4.1.

Figures 4.2 depict the variation of compressive strength with age for all the mixes. From the
investigation it was observed that compressive strength of all the interlock for various mixes

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gradually decreased .Sand was replaced with of saw dust in the percentage of 5% shows
good strength which is nearer to the standard concrete. But, replacement percentage was
increase from 5 to 15% reduced the compressive strength. As it can be clearly observed that
the higher replacement of saw dust with sand reduced the compression strength than standard
mix.

4.3 Density
Density of concrete is mass per unit volume of concrete. If the concrete is dense, it should be
well compacted. The density of concrete is directly proportional to the strength of concrete.
If density of the concrete increased then water absorption decreases. So the concrete should
have higher density and also high compressive strength.

Table 4.2 Density in Kg/m3

Replacement Levels
Of Fine Aggregate
with Saw dust (%) 0 5 10 15

Bulk Density at 1856 1823 1802 1784

7days in (Kg/m3)

Bulk Density at 28 2200 2195 2046 1996

days in (Kg/m3)

2500
2200 2195
2046 1996
2000 1856 1823 1802
1784
Density (Kg/m3)

1500

1000

500

0
bulk density at 7 days(Kg/m3) bulk density at 28
No of days days(Kg/m3)
0 5 10 15
Figure 4.3 Density in Kg/m3

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The density values of paver block specimens for various mix proportions are calculated by
dividing the mass by the volume of paver block. From Fig.4.3, it was observed that, for
paver blocks without saw dust, the density values are comparatively higher as compared to
that of blocks containing saw dust as fine aggregates. It was also seen that density values
decreases with increase in saw dust content. Density values are below 2000 kg/m3 when the
saw dust content gives beyond 15%.

4.4 Water Absorption

The water absorption values of paver blocks specimens are calculated for various mix
proportions and the effect of saw dust content on water absorption is shown in Figure 4.4.

Table 4.3 Water Absorption Test value

Replacement Levels
Of Fine Aggregate
with Saw dust (%) 0 5 10 15

Water Absorption 1.18 1.39 1.65 2.08

in %

Water Absorption Test

2.5
Replacement levels of Fine Aggregate(%)

1.5

0.5

0
Water absorption in
(%)

Water Absorption (%)

0 5 10 15

Figure 4.4 Water Absorption (%)

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From the test results, it can be seen that the water absorption values for all the specimens of
mix ratios were lower than 7% as per IS: 15658-2006 specifications. It was also found that,
for specimens without saw dust, the water absorption values are comparatively lower as
compared to that of specimens containing saw dust as fine aggregates. It was also observed
that, water absorption increases with increase in saw dust content. The water absorption
increases by about 18%, 40% and 76% respectively with respect to control specimens
without saw dust.

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CONCLUSION

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Chapter-5

CONCLUSION

5.2 CONCLUSION
On the basis of test results of the present work following conclusions are drawn:

1. The Compressive strengths of the paving units with the increasing saw dust replacements
were found to decrease.
2. A maximum of 5% saw dust replacement is recommended where moderate compressive
is desired while an optimum of 10% can be used where high compressive strength is not
a requirement.
3. The replacement of saw dust led to the cost saving.
4. Saw dust concrete is used as a substitution where compressive strength is not a
requirement.
5. Density of paver blocks is within the range of 1996-2200 kg/m3. Density values
decreases with increase in saw dust.
6. Saw dust is suitable in making paver blocks as the water absorption is less than 7%.
7. The paver blocks prepared using M40 grade of concretes can be used for light traffic
commercial vehicles like Pedestrian plazas, shopping complexes ramps, car parks,
housing colonies, office complexes, rural roads with low volume traffic, farm houses,
beach sites, tourist resorts local authority footways, residential roads, etc.

5.2 SCOPE OF FUTURE WORK

1. It will have a good result if we use some other materials along with saw dust.
2. Use of Saw dust in varying proportions can be studied.
3. Using Saw dust as a replacement material for fine aggregate is not a good idea as it
produces low strength materials.

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REFERENCES

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REFERENCES

[1]Adebayo Olatunbosun Sojobi “Evaluation Of The Performance Of Eco Friendly

Lightweight Interlocking Paver Units Incorporating Saw Dust and Laterite”, Sojobi Cogent
Engineering 3:1255168, November 2016.

[2]Adebakin I. H., Adeyemi A. A., Adu J. T.Ajayi F. A, Lawal A. A and Ogunrinola O.

B,“Uses of sawdust as admixture in production of lowcost and light-weight hollow sandcrete
blocks”, American Journal Of Scientific And Industrial Research, ISSN: 2153-649,
December 2012.

[3]Tomas U.Ganiron Jr,“Effect of Sawdust as Fine Aggregate in Concrete Mixture for

Building Construction”, International Journal of Advanced Science and Technology, Vol.63,
2014.

[4] Dilip Kumar, Smita Singh, Neetesh Kumar and Ashish Gupta, “Low Cost Construction
Material for Concrete as Sawdust”, Volume 14, Issue 4, 2014.

[5] Zhi Xing,Chafika Djelal, Yannick Vanhove and Hassina Kada, “Wood Waste in
Concrete Blocks Made by Vibro compression”, Springer International Publishing
Switzerland, 2015.

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PERSONAL PROFILE

Mrs.Surekha.T perceived B.E Degree in Civil

1. Engineering from VCET, Puttur in the year
2009 and Masters Degree in Construction
Technology from KVGCE,Sullia in the year
2015.She is serving as a Assistant Professor in
the Department of Civil Engineering VCET
Puttur.She has 10 years of teaching experience.
Her area of interest include
ConcreteTechnology,TransportationEngineering
and Geotechnical Engineering.
E-mail: surekha1287@gmail.com
Mob No:9743704899

P S MANOJ KUMAR
2.
S/O P K Seetharama Gowda

Padejaru house,Kodimbala Post &

Village, Kadaba Tq, D K 57420

Email :manupskadaba@gmail.com
Mob No:+91 6363917515

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MITHUN.B
3.
S/O Bhaskaran
Challanthadka House
P O Movvar, Kasaragod District
Kerala State-671 543.
E Mail ID:mithbhaskar@gmail.com

HARSHAVARDHANA M S
4.
S/O Shivananjhia M K

Moodanahalli Village,Alenhalli Post,

Ankihebbal,K R Pete, Mandya District-571401

Email :mshvardana016@gmail.com

Mob No:9380259905

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APPENDIX-1
MIX DESIGN
CONCRETE MIX DESIGN FOR M40 GRADE
A) STIPULATIONS FOR PROPORTIONING

a) Grade designation : M40

b) Type of cement : OPC 53 grade conforming to IS 8112
c) Maximum nominal size of aggregate : 20mm
d) Workability : 100 mm (slump)
e) Exposure condition : Moderate
f) Type of aggregate : Crushed angular aggregate
g) Maximum cement content : 450 Kg/m3
B) TEST DATA FOR MATERIALS
a) Specific gravity of
1) Cement : 3.1
2) Coarse aggregate : 2.65
3) Fine aggregate : 2.62
b) Water absorption
1) Coarse aggregate : 0.39%
2) Fine aggregate : 1.45%
c) Sieve analysis
1) Coarse aggregate : Confirming to IS 383 Zone II
2) Fine aggregate : Confirming to zone II IS 383

C) TARGET STRENGTH FOR MIX PROPORTIONING

f’ck = f ck + 1.65 s
Where
f’ck = target average compressive strength at 28 days,
f ck = characteristic compressive strength at 28 days,

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s = standard deviation,
Therefore, target strength = 40 + (1.65X 5)

= 48.25 N/mm2

D) SELECTION OF WATER CEMENT RATIO

From Table 2,
Maximum water content = 186 litres (25 mm slump) for 20 mm aggregate
Estimated water content for 100 mm slump
Trial,
Use of superplasticizer reduce water content to 10%, i.e.180 to 195 litres of water/m3
Water content = 190-19 = 171 litres
Water content = 170 litres + 0.75% superplasticizer
W/C = 0.4

E) CALCULATION OF CEMENT CONTENT

Water-cement ratio = 0.40
170
Cement content =
0.4
= 425 Kg/m3

F) PROPORTION OF VOLUME OF COARSE AGGREGATE AND FINE

AGGREGATE CONTENT
Volume of coarse aggregate = 0.62 X 1
= 0.62
Volume of fine aggregate = 1 – 0.62
= 0.38

G) MIX CALCULATION

a) Volume of concrete =1m3

Mass ofcement 1
b) Volume of cement = X
Specific gravity of cement 1000
425 1
= x
3.1 1000

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= 0.137 m3
Mass ofwater 1
c) Volume of water = x
Specificgravity of water 100
170 1
= x
1 1000
=0.17 m3

Mass of chemeicaladmixture 1
d) Volume of chemical admixture = x
Specificgravity of admixture 1000
3.1875 1
= x
1.2 1000

= 0.0027 m3
e) Volume of all in aggregate = [a-(b + c + d)]
= [1-(0.137 + 0.17 + 0.0027)]

= 0.690 m3
f) Mass of coarse aggregate = e x volume of coarse aggregate x specific
gravity of CA. x 1000
= 0.690 x 0.62 x 2.65 x 1000
= 1133.67 Kg

e) Mass of fine aggregate = e x volume of fine aggregate x specific gravity

of fine aggregate x1000
= 0.690 x 0.38 x 2.62 x 1000
= 686.96 Kg

H) MIX PROPORTIONS

a) Cement = 425 Kg/m3

b) Water =170 kg/m3
c) Fine aggregate = 686.96 Kg
d) Coarse aggregate = 1133.67 Kg
Mix Proportion for Control mix: 1: 1.62: 2.67: 0.4

(Cement: Fine aggregate: Coarse aggregate: Water)

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