|
Ihedioha, T. O.
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.
Okoroafor, O. O.
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.
Chikwue, M. I.
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.
Uzoh, U. E.
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri. PMB 1526 Owerri Imo State, Nigeria.
ABSTRACT
Compressive
strength is a crucial factor in the structural design of cost-effective,
load-bearing concrete elements such as beams, columns, and slabs. Given the
rising costs and scarcity of construction materials, reusing industrial
waste—specifically, drill cuttings (DC)—as supplementary cementitious materials
present a sustainable solution with both environmental and economic benefits.
This study explores the use of thermally treated drill cuttings as a partial
replacement for cement in concrete. The goal is to develop predictive models
for compressive strength across various replacement levels and curing
durations. In this study, drill cuttings were pretreated at 500°C for 3 hours,
then ground to pass through a 63 µm sieve. They were used to replace Ordinary
Portland Limestone Cement (42.5R, CEM II) by 0%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5%, and 15%
by weight. Concrete mixes were prepared in a 1:2:4 ratio, maintaining a
constant water-binder ratio of 0.60. Cube specimens measuring 150 mm³ were cast
and water-cured for 7, 14, 28, 60, and 90 days. The material properties,
including particle size distribution, fineness modulus, and grading indices,
were characterized. Compressive strength was evaluated according to BS
1881:116, along with assessments of the strength activity index (SAI), water
absorption ratio, and workability through slump tests. A linear regression
model based on the least squares’ method was developed to predict compressive
strength as a function of curing time and the content of drill cuttings. The
model demonstrated strong predictive capabilities, with coefficients of
determination (R²) ranging from 0.6908 to 0.9849, and Root Mean Square Error
(RMSE) values ranging from 0.17 to 21.63. Statistical analyses, including
randomized complete block design (RCBD), ANOVA, and least significant
difference (LSD) tests, confirmed the significance of the results. The findings
have established that treated drill cuttings can serve as a viable partial
cement replacement. This approach not only achieves substantial material
savings and environmental benefits but also maintains the structural integrity
of the concrete. The proposed regression models offer an effective tool for
predicting compressive strength across different curing periods and replacement
levels, supporting the broader application of waste-derived materials in
sustainable construction.
Keywords: Modeling; Compressive Strength; Regression Analysis; Replacement levels; Drill Cuttings
https://doi.org/10.33922/j.ujet_v11i1_17
|
View: 19 | Download: 5
Published
Monday, February 03, 2025
Issue
Vol. 11 No. 1, June 2025
Article Section
GENERAL
The contents of the articles are the sole opinion of the author(s) and not of UJET.
|
