Agricultural and aquaculture by-products as aggregate in concrete

What is it about?

High demand for concrete leads to the excessive exploitation of natural resource deposits of aggregate in the environment. An approach to improving the sustainability of concrete as a construction material focuses on the development of green concrete using wastes and by-products. A possible solution to the waste management problem of agricultural and aquaculture by-products is to use them as an alternative aggregate in concrete. This paper is a literature review which summarises recent developments on the utilisation of agricultural and aquaculture by-products as aggregate in concrete. Physical and mechanical properties of the agricultural and aquaculture by-products, as well as properties of the agricultural and aquaculture by-product concrete, are discussed. Recommendations for future research are also made.

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Why is it important?

The need to utilise agricultural and aquaculture by-products as aggregate in the construction of concrete structures is necessitated due to both environmental and economic reasons. Consequently, sustainability of the concrete industry will be promoted through the production of green concrete, preservation of depleting natural resources, protection of the environment, conservation of energy and promotion of efficient waste management. The information provided in the paper will generate interests among stakeholders to further develop concrete made with agricultural and aquaculture by-products and wastes. Recognition and utilisation of agricultural and aquaculture by-products as an alternative aggregate in concrete will contribute to sustainable development of the built environment.

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