Comparative Study of the Physical and Mechanical Properties of Eco-Interlocking Pavement Blocks Incorporating Rice Husk Powder (RHP) and Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP)

Abstract

The increasing demand for construction materials has contributed to depletion of natural resources and the generation of agricultural and construction waste. The improper disposal disposal of waste materials such as Rice Husk Powder (RHP) and Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP) has created environmental impacts, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives in construction applications. This study aims to develop eco-interlocking pavement blocks (Eco-IPB) incorporating RHP as partial cement replacement and RAP as aggregate replacement and to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties. A laboratory experimental approach was conducted by producing Eco-IPB specimens with dimensions of 110 mm x 220 mm x 60 mm. Different replacement levels of RHP (5%,10%,15% and 20%) were incorporated with two RAP replacement which is 100% and 10% RAP replacement. A total of 72 specimens were prepared and tested after 28 days of curing. The performance of the blocks was evaluated based on density, compressive strength and water absorption in accordance with BS EN 1338 requirements. The results showed that the optimum mixture was achieved at 10% RHP with 10% RAP, by producing a compressive strength of 49.69 MPa compared to other mixtures. The incorporation of RHP and RAP improved performance than to the control specimen while satisfying the standard. In conclusion, the application of RHP and RAP provides potential as alternative materials for Eco-IPB production by reducing waste generation and dependency on conventional materials. Future studies are recommended to investigate long- term durability performance and large scale application of these sustainable pavement blocks..