Application of Corn Stalk Ash as Partial Replacement for Cement in the Production of Interlocking Paving Stones

In an attempt to reuse and convert agro wastes into useful materials for the construction industry, this research considered the application of corn stalk ash (CSA) as partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) in the production of interlocking paving stones. The study investigated the oxide composition of CSA to ascertain its suitability as a pozzolanic material. Some properties of paving stones with CSA as a replacement for OPC were examined. The results showed that CSA is a good pozzolana having satisfied the required standards. The compressive strength of the specimens with replacement levels ranging from 5 to 25% cured for periods of 3–56 days was lower at early curing time but improved significantly at later age. 10% replacement level showed increased strength compared to 0% CSA at 28 days curing period. Density decreased with increasing ash content, water absorption rate increased with increased CSA contents, while abrasion resistance increased with increasing amount of CSA substitutions. The test results revealed that CSA paving stones can attain higher strength than the conventional ones at longer curing periods, due to its pozzolanic reactions.