1

Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Situation Analysis

The worldwide push for environmentally friendly construction has gained

substantial traction in recent years, driven by the critical need to battle climate change

and promote sustainable development. As an archipelago prone to natural calamities

such as earthquakes and typhoons and experiencing increasing urbanization, the

Philippines has acknowledged the necessity of sustainable development in building

robust and ecologically friendly infrastructure. Traditional construction methods in the

Philippines have historically depended extensively on natural resources such as bamboo,

coconuts, and shells. As urbanization accelerated, these practices shifted towards more

modern techniques and materials. The need for sustainable construction materials

remains critical in the face of climate change and limited resources. Thus, understanding

the historical context of traditional construction methods and embracing modern-day

challenges is crucial in creating a sustainable future. (Guia, 2023)

Concrete is the second most used material in the world next only to water. It is

used in building homes, skyscrapers, bridges, roads, tunnels, and is a staple of most

developed areas. Currently about 30 GT of concrete is used annually, about enough to

cover the state of California with a 30 cm deep layer of concrete every year. Using a data

base we had compiled on country and regional resource use; we quantified the demand

for water at each phase of production of concrete. The results highlight that the high

demand for concrete is impacting global water demand. While other activities, such as

agriculture, demand far more water, concrete production alone is responsible for 9% of
 2

industrial water withdrawal (or 1.7% of total global water withdrawal). With projections

for population growth, demand for water to produce concrete will continue to grow.

Unless mitigation strategies are implemented this will create water stress in some

geographic areas and exacerbate it in others. Over the next 35 years, the global water

withdrawal for concrete production, if unchecked, will be equivalent to the total water

withdrawal (agricultural, industrial, residential, and municipal) for the past 5-6 years in

the United States. The findings of this study suggest that the GHG emissions from

concrete production should not be our only consideration as we continue to advance the

science behind making this ubiquitous material more sustainable. (Miller, 2018)

Moreover, as a key input into concrete, the most widely used construction

material in the world, cement is a major contributor to climate change. The chemical and

thermal combustion processes involved in the production of cement are a large source of

carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Each year, more than 4 billion tons of cement are

produced, accounting for around 8 per cent of global CO2 emissions. To bring the cement

sector in line with the Paris Agreement on climate change, its annual emissions will need

to fall by at least 16 per cent by 2030. Steeper reductions will be required if assumptions

about the contribution from carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies prove to be

optimistic. Meanwhile, investors are increasingly expecting companies to report clear

information on their exposure to climate risk. The trends all point to regulatory, financial

and societal pressures on the horizon, especially for cement companies without a detailed

plan for a Paris-compliant pathway. (House, 2018)

Besides, concrete is a mix of several different materials: water, fine aggregates (or

sand), coarse aggregates (or gravel), chemical additives, and, most importantly, cement.
 3

Cement is what binds all of these ingredients together to give concrete its durability and

distinctive, grey appearance. Cement production, however, also generates most of

concrete’s emissions: in fact, a 2016 study found that cement accounts for around 7% of

all greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Cement begins as crushed minerals that are

heated in a kiln to make what is called “clinker.” Clinker is ground into a powder, mixed

with a few additives, and then blended with some other minerals to create cement. This

process creates CO2 in two main ways. The first is the chemical reaction that occurs as

clinker forms. The second is heating the kiln to temperatures above 2600°F, which must

be done using fossil fuels. To make low-carbon concrete a reality, manufacturers,

engineers, and scientists are working to lower the CO 2 emissions of cement production

and change the ingredients used in concrete. (Gregory, 2021)

Construction activities in the Philippines are swelling. According to the Philippine

Statistics Authority (PSA), the total number of constructions in the second quarter of

2018 was 40,182, up 11.7% from the 35,983 constructions recorded in the same period in

2017. From April to June, the agency recorded 29,060 residential constructions, 5,644

non-residential constructions, 1,511 additions to existing structures, and 3,697 alterations

and repairs made to existing structures. The top five regions in terms of number of

constructions were CALABARZON (9,608 constructions or 23.9% of the total), Central

Luzon (5,028 or 12.5%), Central Visayas (4,555 or 11.3%), Ilocos Region (3,123 or

7.8%) and the National Capital Region (3,043 or 7.6%). (A construction boom and

thriving cement industry, 2018)

Additionally, the growth in constructions has been taking place alongside an

increasing number of infrastructure projects being undertaken by the administration of

 4

President Rodrigo R. Duterte under its “Build, Build, Build” program. Early this year, Gil

S. Beltran, Undersecretary of the Department of Finance, was quoted in news reports as

saying that about 60 infrastructure projects were then under construction and pre-

construction. The construction boom has been a boon to the industry that supplies one of

the most basic construction materials — cement. In a report, Oxford Business Group

noted that cement sales reached 24.4 million tons in 2015, citing data from the Cement

Manufacturers’ Association of the Philippines. The following year, sales climbed to 26

million tons. (A construction boom and thriving cement industry, 2018)

Also, the construction industry is a key contributor to the Philippine economy,

generating about seven percent of the country’s gross domestic product in 2022. Despite

headwinds caused by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the construction sector was

expected to see growth in the following years as the country’s economy recovers.

However, inflation and high-interest rates were seen to challenge growth forecasts.

Several factors were seen to challenge the development of the construction sector in the

Philippines. Among those include supply chain disruptions that will raise the prices of

construction materials. As of the first quarter of 2023, preliminary figures indicated that

the average cost per square meter of residential construction amounted to 10.5 thousand

Philippine pesos, while non-residential construction was at 11.34 thousand Philippine

pesos. In Metro Manila alone, the wholesale price index of construction materials grew

by over eight percent in 2022, with machinery and equipment rental having the highest

price index. The retail price index of construction materials also increased by about six

percent in the same year, especially for miscellaneous materials. (Department, 2023)
 5

In the construction of structures, cement is commonly utilized as a construction

material. The high cost of conventional building materials has a significant impact on the

structure's economy. Synthetic lightweight aggregate manufactured from environmental

trash is a potential new source of structural aggregate material, as concerns about the over

use of natural aggregates develop. As more natural resources from the earth's surface are

used, they are becoming deficient. Alccofine is a new generation micro fine concrete

material for high Strength which is important in respect of workability as well as

strength. As a result, the coconut shell is being investigated as a partial substitute for

coarse aggregate in building blocks then cast it. The compressive strength, slump, and

density of concrete are all evaluated. In the concrete building blocks, the replacement of

cement with an Alccofine by 5% and the replacement of coarse aggregate with coconut

shell by 0%, 50%, 100%. As the percentage of replacement increased, it was seen that the

slump was getting worse. The density also drops as the proportion of replacement rises.

The compressive strength is demonstrated to decline as the percentage replacement

increases. (K. Vignesh Kumar a, 2023) Bricks have been a major construction and

structure material for a long time. The worldwide periodic product of bricks is presently

about 1391 billion units and the demand for bricks is anticipated to be continuously

rising. Conventional bricks are produced from soil with high temperature kiln blasting. It

is also noted that there is a deficit of in numerous corridor of the world. To cover the

complexion resource soil and the environment, some countries similar as China have

started to limit the use of bricks made from complexion. Coconut is a protean product and

has multiple uses. Nearly all the corridor of a lately grown coconut, comestible or else,

are used in some or the other manner. India is one of the leading coconut directors in the
 6

world, producing 13 billion nuts per annum. Fired bricks are made by using soil beach

mixes with different probabilities of rice cocoon ash. The blasting durations at 9000C

were independently 2, 4 and 6 hours. The goods of rice cocoon content on workable

mixing water content, Atterberg limits, direct loss, compressive strength and water

absorption of the bricks were dived. The results indicated addition of rice cocoon,

increased the compressive strength of bricks. The bricks made of soil – coconut

filaments, shell mixes could be used for construction purpose. (CHARLES, 2022)

In addition, bricks are widely used construction and building material around the

world. Bricks are prepared from natural waste material (coconut waste). Soil is used as a

binding material for natural waste material. The main objective of the present study is to

reduce the quantity of soil with natural waste material. The coconut fibers are used to

make light weight bricks. The coconut fiber which otherwise is land filled has been

utilized to make construction bricks that serves a purpose of solid waste management. For

environmental protection and sustainable development, extensive research has been

conducted on production of bricks from waste material. These wastes is used to reduce

the quantity of soil as there is a greater storage of soil in many parts of world. The bricks

are prepared by coconut fibers with varying composition of soil reduced the quantity of

soil (10%-25%) respectively. The prepared bricks are tested in compression strength

machine for getting compressive strength of bricks. (www.irijet, 2018)

In the same way, bricks have been a major construction and building material for

a long time. The worldwide annual production of bricks is currently about 1391 billion

units and the demand for bricks is expected to be continuously rising. Conventional

bricks are produced from soil with high temperature kiln firing. It is also noted that there
 7

is a shortage of in many parts of the world. To protect the clay resource soil and the

environment, some countries such as China have started to limit the use of bricks made

from clay. Coconut is a versatile product and has multiple uses. Almost all the parts of a

freshly grown coconut, eatable or otherwise, are used in some or the other manner. India

is one of the leading coconut producers in the world, producing 13 billion nuts per

annum. Fired bricks are made by using soil –sand mixes with different percentages of rice

husk ash. The firing durations at 9000C were respectively 2, 4 and 6 hours. The effects of

rice husk content on workable mixing water content, Atterberg limits, linear shrinkage,

density, compressive strength and water absorption of the bricks were investigated. The

results indicated that the inclusion of rice husk, increased the compressive strength of

bricks. The bricks made of soil –coconut fibers–rice husk, shell mixes could be used for

construction purpose. (www.irijet, 2018)

Clearly, this study evaluated the feasibility of using coconut shells waste powder

(CSP) as a renewable pore-forming agent in fired clay brick making. The effect of

coconut shell powder addition and the variation in firing temperature were investigated.

Based on the obtained results, the addition of CSP did not change the mineralogy and

color of the bricks. On the other hand, it appears that the bulk density decreased with

increasing CSP addition, which ultimately leads to lighter bricks. (Zineb Moujoud, 2023)

Furthermore, coconut shell, a once discarded outer hard cover of a coconut is now

a product of great demand. In addition to the known fact that coconut shells are used in

handicraft industry to make very interesting pieces of art, coconut shells have various

other uses apart from the arts and crafts industry. Coconut shell is the toughest

component covered in coconut fruit. The coconut shell is situated between the coconut
 8

flesh and the coconut husk. This shell is usually designed to cover the inner portion of the

coconut. Shell is used for the development of various handicrafts and other applications.

The porous shell of a coconut traps pollutants like dust and harmful chemicals when it is

thrown into the garbage. These pollutants are later on released out into the air. The shells

provide a home for microorganisms that break down these hazardous compounds,

converting them into harmless substances. Structurally, coconut shell contains mainly

cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin and moisture which are potential sources of carbon.

(Thomas, 2022)

Due to heightened demand for construction materials and environmental crisis,

this study presents an alternative to cement using upcycled agricultural waste to help the

construction industry and address environmental issues. The study focuses on substituting

cement in concrete hollow blocks with coconut shell ash. (Verma, 2019) (Verma, 2019)

They are lightweight, have good thermal insulation capacity, and high

compressive strength. (K. S. Jagadish, 2018)

Besides, coconut shell is high potential material due to its high strength and

modulus properties. Coconut shell powder exhibits admirable properties compared to

other materials such as low cost, renewable, high specific strength to weight ratio, low

density less abrasion to machine and environmentally friendly. (Somashekhar, 2018)

It should be noted that, coconut water is known to have a lot of health

benefits and some people even like to have it daily (in moderation). Not only this, a fully

mature (brown) coconut is also used as offering to the Gods in temples, especially in the

Hindu culture in India. So, what happens to the coconut shells and husk afterwards? For
 9

the tender coconuts, it is a common site for the coconut vendors to pile them nearby

owing to lack of established infrastructure to recycle them despite them being clearly

classified as dry waste. As for the mature coconuts, owing to the religious sentiments

attached, sooner or later they end up in landfills as people refrain from throwing them in

dedicated bins for dry waste recycling. This article discusses some of the efficient ways

to recycle the shells and husks of coconuts to ensure they do not end up in landfills.

Finally, people are starting to take note of the lack of proper infrastructure for recycling

tender coconut, at least in Mumbai, India. The tender coconut shells have multiple reuse

cases. For instance, they can be used to make low-cost, eco-friendly, DIY hutments or can

be shredded and converted into mulch to protect the trees from erosion and harsh weather

especially on hilly terrain. (How to recycle tender and mature coconuts?, 2021)

Also, coconut shell is a waste, generated by industrial and agricultural processes,

and has created disposal and management problems that pose serious issues of

environmental pollution. The waste coconut shell may be utilized to replace natural

coarse aggregate. The compressive strength of coconut shell concrete was reduced as

percentage replacement increased. Concrete mixtures were tested and compared in terms

of compressive strength of the conventional concrete. The study result shows that

Coconut Shell Concrete (CSC) can be used as light weight concrete. Use of Coconut

Shell as a substitute of aggregate will not only is cost effective and eco-friendly but also

help to resolve the problem of shortage of conventional material such as coarse

aggregate. Use of such materials also reduces the problem of disposal of waste material.

(Verma, 2019)
 10

If waste is used as construction material in the form of coarse aggregate in

concrete, it can lead to disposal of a large amount of waste. Coconut shell provides light

weight concrete. It is much useful for low-cost construction due to the concrete structure

is economic and the disposal problem will be solved. The purpose of this study was to

demonstrate the benefits of utilizing coconut shell in concrete. If the house is constructed

of natural materials, it will give a cooler environment. Because the coconut shell has an

air chamber, it can naturally cool and reduce heat. This helps to lower indoor

temperatures, which eliminates the need for energy-intensive air conditioners. Its eco-

friendly product. Recycling and reusing waste effectively thus protecting the environment

from possible pollution effect. Coconut shell aggregate have lower density. (Prajapati,

2022)

Use of coconut shell aggregate as structural lightweight concrete is recommended.

Coconut shell aggregate is a possible construction material and Use of this non-

biodegradable material in concrete would not only make the construction cost less since

coconut shells would require less costing as compared to the coarse aggregates but also

reuse the site material and help in environmental aspect. A potential exists for the use of

coconut shells as replacement of conventional aggregate in both conventional reinforced

concrete and plain cement concrete construction. The use of coconut shells as a partial

replacement for conventional aggregates should be encouraged as an environmental

protection and construction cost reduction measure. The increase in population also

increases the industrial by products, domestic sites etc. It has been noticed in India that

coconut shell (CS) as an agricultural site, requires high dumping yards as well as an

environmental polluting agent. A large amount of agricultural site which is disposed in

 11

most of tropical countries if not be disposed properly it would lead to social and

environmental problem. Utilized those disposed material is one method of treating the

agricultural site from site to wealth. On currently reduces the environmental problem of

solid site.

The extensive literature discussed above prompted the researchers to explore the

effectiveness and potential benefits of incorporating coconut shell ash as a partial

replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete brick production. This investigation is

motivated by the urgent need for sustainable construction solutions in the face of

escalating environmental challenges. By delving into innovative methods that repurpose

agricultural by-products, researchers aim to mitigate the adverse environmental impacts

associated with conventional construction materials while fostering a more harmonious

relationship between human infrastructure and the natural world.

Through meticulous experimentation and analysis, this research seeks to provide

insights into the effectiveness of coconut shell ash as a renewable and eco-friendly

ingredient in concrete brick manufacturing. By contributing to the broader discourse on

sustainable construction practices, researchers aspire to inspire positive change within the

construction industry and promote the adoption of innovative approaches that align with

principles of environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

 12

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to evaluate the Effectiveness of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

ash as a Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in Concrete Brick Production.

Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions;

1. What are the best qualities of the brick in terms of;

a. Durability;

b. Eco-friendly; and

c. Cost-efficient?

2. Which of the following treatments (T1-T3) is the best brick?

3. Is there a significant relationship between and among the treatments (T1-T3)?

Time and place of the study

This study took place over a period of time. The title was formulated on October

5, 2023. Subsequently, chapter 1 began on November 10, 2023, followed by chapter 2 on

December 3, 2023. The survey for data collection commenced on February 13, 2024, and

concluded on February 20, 2024. Chapter 3 started on March 20, 2024, while chapter 4

began on March 25, 2024. Finally, this research paper was completed on April 8, 2024.

The coconut (Cocos nucifera) shells used in the study were collected from Brgy.
 13

Poblacion, San Gabriel, at the Farmer’s Center, while the production of bricks took place

in Brgy. Nagyubuyuban, San Juan, La Union.

Definition of terms

Agricultural waste is plant residues from agriculture, not used for human or animal food,

often recycled for various applications.

Carbon is a chemical element (atomic number 6) that forms various compounds and is a

constituent of organic compounds in living tissues.

Cellulose is insoluble substance that is the main constituent of plant cell walls and

vegetable fibers like cotton.

Climate change is long-term change in global or regional climate patterns, attributed

largely to increased atmospheric carbon dioxide from fossil fuels.

Coarse aggregate are materials larger than 4.75 mm used in concrete, such as gravel and

crushed stone.

Coconut fiber is natural fiber extracted from the coconut husk, used in products like mats

and brushes.

Coconut husk is the rough exterior shell of the coconut, used for creating enriched potting

soil and crafts.

Coconut shell ash is the ash produced from burned coconut shells, used as a binder in

concrete due to its silicate and aluminate content.

 14

Coconut shells is the hard protective layer between the coconut meat and husk, used for

handicrafts and other applications.

Lightweight is having less weight compared to others of the same type.

Lignin is complex organic polymer in plant cell walls that adds rigidity and does not

decompose easily.

Pollution is the presence of substances in the environment that are harmful or poisonous

to living organisms.

Thermal insulation is material used to prevent the transfer of heat between objects or

environments.
 15

Chapter 2

METHODOLOGY

Research Design

This study employs experimental research to evaluate the effectiveness of coconut

(Cocos nucifera) shell ash as a partial replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete brick

production.

Also, experimental research is a study conducted with a scientific approach using

two sets of variables. The first set acts as a constant, which is used to measure the

differences of the second set. This type of research is essential for establishing cause-and-

effect relationships, as it allows for the manipulation of variables and observation of their

effects. (Bhat, 2024)

Experimental research systematically adjusts ingredients in concrete brick

production, focusing on coconut shell ash as a partial replacement for coarse aggregate.

Real-world scenarios are prepared, and statistical analysis evaluates its impact on

concrete brick properties. This comprehensive assessment of coconut shell ash as a

sustainable alternative is achieved through explicit testing methods and comparisons to

control group.

Additionally, random sampling was utilized in this study, involving the selection

of respondents from a statistical population. This method ensures that each potential
 16

sample has a predetermined probability of being chosen. In this study, 10 respondents

were randomly selected to participate in the research.

Materials and Procedure

Raw materials and quantity

Raw Materials Quantity

Coconut shell ash 600 grams

Cement 2,000 grams

Sand 2,000 grams

Water 1.25 liters

Equipment and quantity

Equipment Quantity

Weighing scale 2 pieces

Brick molder 1 piece

Trowel 1 piece

Preparation of the bricks

Firstly, prepare the materials needed. Secondly, burn the coconut shell until it turns into

ash. Next, mix the coconut shell ash, sand, and cement until the mixture is uniform. Then,

gradually add water and mix until the mixture reaches the desired consistency. After that, fill the
 17

brick molder with the mixture, making sure to pack it tightly to remove any air pockets.

Subsequently, smooth the surface of the mixture with a trowel. Afterward, allow the bricks to

cure for at least 24 hours. To prevent, them from drying out too quickly, cover them with a damp

cloth. Finally, after the bricks have cured, remove them from the brick molder and allow them to

dry completely.

Data Gathering Tools

To determine the effectiveness of coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash as a partial

replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete brick production, the researchers distributed

the bricks with coconut shell ash as aggregate and provided a questionnaire for the

respondents to answer considering the observation among the three treatments and the

commercial brick.

Treatments Raw Materials and Quantity

Treatments 0 Commercial Concrete Brick

Treatment 1 750g Cement, 300g Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

Ash, 500g Sand, 460mL Water

Treatment 2 625g Cement, 200g Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

Ash, 625g Sand, 440ml Water

Treatment 3 500g Cement, 100g Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

Ash, 750g Sand, 350ml Water

 18

Data Gathering Tools

To determine the level of effectiveness of bricks with coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell

ash as aggregate in terms of durability, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient, the following scales

are used:

Durability

Numerical Value Descriptive Equivalent Rating Indicator

5 Very Highly Effective Very Highly Durable

4 Highly Effective Highly Durable

3 Moderately Effective Moderately Durable

2 Slightly Effective Slightly Durable

1 Not Effective Not Durable

Eco-friendly

Numerical Value Descriptive Equivalent Rating Indicator

5 Very Highly Effective Most Eco-friendly

4 Highly Effective Very Eco-friendly

 19

3 Moderately Effective Moderately Eco-friendly

2 Slightly Effective Somewhat Eco-friendly

1 Not Effective Least Eco-friendly

Cost-efficient

Numerical Value Descriptive Equivalent Rating Indicator

5 Very Highly Effective Very Cheap

4 Highly Effective Cheap

3 Moderately Effective Affordable

2 Slightly Effective Expensive

1 Not Effective Very Expensive

Average Weight Mean Descriptive Equivalent Rating

4.21-5.00 Very Highly Effective

3.41-4.20 Highly Effective

2.61-3.40 Moderately Effective

1.81-2.60 Slightly Effective

1-1.80 Not Effective

 20

Statistical Tools

To determine the chemical components of coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell, reading

and research were done.

To determine the use of coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash as a partial

replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete production in terms of durability, eco-

friendly, and cost-efficient, the observations of the respondents were summarized in a

table and the average weighted mean (AWM) computed.

To determine the difference in the level of the bricks among the 3 treatments, the

analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used.

To determine the coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash as a partial replacement of

coarse aggregate in concrete production in terms of durability, eco-friendly, and cost-

efficient, the average weighted mean was computed with the descriptive ratings.
 21

INPUT

- Commercial

Concrete Brick

- 750g Cement, 300g

Coconut (Cocos

nucifera) Shell Ash,

500g Sand, 460ml

Water

- 625 Cement, 200g

Coconut (Cocos

nucifera) Shell Ash,

440ml Water

- 500g Cement, 100g

Coconut (Cocos

nucifera) Shell Ash,

750g Sand, 350ml

Water

Figure 1: Research Paradigm

 22

PROCESSES

Prepare the materials.

Burn the coconut shell

until it turns into ash.

Mix the coconut shell

ash, sand, and cement.

Add water and mix

until the mixture
reaches the desired
consistency.

Fill the brick molder

with the mixture.

Allow the bricks to

cure for at least 24
hours and cover with
damp cloth.

After the bricks have

cured, remove them
from the molder and
allow them to dry
completely.
 23

OUTPUT

Coconut (Cocos
nucifera) Shell
Ash as a Partial
Replacement of
Coarse
Aggregate in
Concrete Brick
Production.

Feedback

CHAPTER 3
 24

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Level of Effectiveness of the 3 treatment of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Ash as a

Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in Concrete Brick Production
Table 1. Level of Effectiveness of the 3 treatment of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Ash as a
Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in Concrete Brick Production

Treatments AWM Descriptive Equivalent Rate

Treatment 1
Durability 4.50 VHE
Eco-friendly 5.00 VHE
Cost-efficient 5.00 VHE
AWM 4.83 VHE
Treatment 2
Durability 4.40 VHE
Eco-friendly 4.90 VHE
Cost-efficient 4.80 VHE
AWM 4.70 VHE
Treatment 3
Durability 4.00 HE
Eco-friendly 4.50 VHE
Cost-efficient 4.60 VHE
AWM 4.37 VHE

Treatment 1 shows that the Average Weighted Mean of Durability is 4.50,

describes as Very Highly Effective. In terms of Eco-friendly, Treatment 1 has an Average

Weighted Mean of 5.00, describes as Very Highly Effective. In Cost-efficient, Treatment

1 has an Average Weighted Mean of 5.00, describes as Very Highly Effective. In general,

Treatment 1 got an Average Weighted Mean of 4.83, which is described as Very Highly

Effective.

Treatment 2 shows that the Average Weighted Mean of Durability is 4.40, which

illustrates that it is Very Highly Effective. In terms of Eco-friendly, Treatment 2 has an

Average Weighted Mean of 4.90, which is described as Very Highly Effective. In Cost-

efficient, Treatment 2 has an Average Weighted Mean of 4.80, which is described as

 25

Highly Effective. In general, Treatment 2 got an Average Weighted Mean of 4.70, which

is described as Very Highly Effective.

Treatment 3 shows that the Average Weighted Mean of Durability is 4.00, which

is described as Highly Effective. In terms of Eco-friendly, Treatment 3 has an Average

Weighted Mean of 4.50, which is described as Very Highly Effective. In Cost-efficient,

Treatment 3 has an Average Weighted Mean of 4.60, which is described as Very Highly

Effective. In general, Treatment 3 got an Average Weighted Mean of 4.70, which is

described as Very Highly Effective.

Best Treatment from the different Treatments T1 - T3

Table 2 shows the best treatment of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell Ash as a

Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in Concrete Brick Production. According to the

table above, treatment 1, with an Average Weighted Mean of 4.83, is described as Very

Highly Effective. However, treatment 2, with an Average Weighted Mean of 4.70, is

described as Very Highly Effective. Also, treatment 3, with an Average Weighted Mean of

4.37, is described as Very Highly Effective. It is clear that treatment 1 is the best

treatment, which has a 4.83 Average Weighted Mean and is described as Very Highly

Effective.

Table 2. Best Treatment from the different Treatments T1 - T3

Treatments AWM Descriptive Equivalent

Rate
Treatment 1 4.83 VHE
Treatment 2 4.70 VHE
Treatment 3 4.37 VHE
 26

This study agrees in another study by some researchers, and mentioned that the

result shows that Coconut Shell Concrete (CSC) can be used as light weight concrete.

Use of Coconut Shell as a substitute of aggregate will not only is cost effective and eco-

friendly, but also help to resolve the problem of shortage of conventional material such as

coarse aggregate. Use of such materials also reduces the problem of disposal of waste

material. (Verma, 2019)

The implications of the other extend to the optimization of eco-friendly concrete

mixtures and sustainable construction practices. (Verma, 2019)

Significant difference among T1 - T3

Table 3 shows that treatment 1, with an Average Weighted Mean of 4.83, is

described as Very Highly Effective. On the other hand, treatment 2, with an Averaged

Weighted Mean of 4.70, is described as Very Highly Effective. However, treatment 3,

with an Average Weighted Mean of 4.37, is described as Very Highly Effective.

Therefore, all treatments are not significantly different.

Table 3. Significant difference among T1 – T3

Treatments AWM Descriptive Equivalent

Rate
Treatment 1 4.83a VHE
Treatment 2 4.70a VHE
Treatment 3 4.37a VHE
Treatments follow the same letter are not significantly different

Using the coconut shell as aggregate in concrete can reduce the material cost in

construction because of the low cost and its abundant agricultural waste. (Verma, 2019)
 27

Chapter 4
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary of the Findings

The results revealed that treatment 1 has the best durability, eco-friendliness, and cost-

efficiency compared to other treatments. It has an Average Weighted Mean of 4.83,

which describes it as Very Highly Effective. Additionally, among the tested treatments,

treatment 1 emerged as the best choice. The results also indicated that there was no

significant difference between the treatments.

Conclusions

Based on the findings, the following conclusions were made:

1. Treatment 1 exhibits the highest average weighted mean among all treatments.

2. Coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash is good as a partial replacement of coarse

aggregate in concrete brick production in terms of durability, eco-friendly, and cost-

efficient.

3. All treatments are not significantly different from each other.

Recommendations

1. Use coconut shell ash in concrete brick production to reduce reliance on traditional

aggregates and promote sustainability.

2. Opt for coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash instead of conventional aggregates to

minimize the environmental impact of brick manufacturing.

 28

3. Substitute non-biodegradable materials with coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash for

its durability, affordability, and eco-friendliness in brick production.

4. Educate construction professionals and decision-makers about the technical aspects

and practical advantages of incorporating coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash into

concrete brick production.

 29

Literature Cited

A construction boom and thriving cement industry. (2018). Business World.

al, T. M. (2018).
bae, t. b. (2022).
Bhat, A. (2024). Experimental Research: What it is + Types of designs. QuestionPro.
CHARLES, G. (2022).
CHARLES, G. (2022).
Department, S. R. (2023). Construction Sector in the Philippines - statistic & facts .
EXPORTS, N. (2023).
Gregory, J. (2021). Concrete: Its ingredient and impacts.
Guia, K. D. (2023). The History of Sustainable Construction Materials in the Philippines.
House, C. (2018). Making concrete change: innovation in low-carbon cement and
concrete.
How to recycle tender and mature coconuts? (2021).
K. S. Jagadish, K. R. (2018).
K. Vignesh Kumar a, C. D. (2023).
K. Vignesh Kumar a, C. D. (n.d.). 2023.
Miller, S. A. (2018).
Miller, S. A. (2018).
Prajapati, S. (2022).
Somashekhar, T. M. (2018).
Somashekhar, T. M. (2018).
Thomas, W. (2022).
Verma, S. K. (2019).
Verma, S. K. (2019).
 30

www.irijet. (2018). Retrieved from www.irijet

Zineb Moujoud, A. H. (2023).

APPENDICES
Appendix A
Research Instrument

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

REGION 1
LA UNION SCHOOLS DIVISION OFFICE
STO. ROSARIO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Sto. Rosario 2514, San Juan, La Union

SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE

This study focuses on using coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash as a partial

replacement for coarse aggregate in the production of concrete bricks. The researcher’s

motivation behind this choice is to contribute to sustainable construction practices. This

choice stems from the growing interest in eco-friendly alternatives within the

construction industry. By exploring the viability of coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell ash as

a substitute for traditional coarse aggregates, the study seeks to assess its impact on the

mechanical properties of concrete bricks. The research aligns with the broader goal of

promoting environmentally conscious construction methods and reducing the reliance on

conventional resources, ultimately striving for a more sustainable and greener

construction sector.

MEMBERS:
 31

Gilliane Grace R. Garcia

Eunilaine P. Rellama
Venice Nicole T. Esperanza
Michaela Samantha P. Santos
Alexandra Mae E. Costales
Richland C. Gappi
John Patrick L. Costales

Statement of the Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the Effectiveness of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

ash as a Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in Concrete Brick Production.

Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions;

1. What are the best qualities of the brick in terms of;

a. Durability;

b. Eco-friendly; and

c. Cost-efficient?

2. Which of the following treatments (T1, - T3) is the best brick?

3. Is there a significant relationship between and among the treatments (T1, - T3)?

Data Gathering Tools

To determine the effectiveness of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell Ash as a partial

replacement of coarse aggregate in concrete brick production, the researchers distributed the

bricks with coconut shell ash as aggregate and provided a questionnaire for the respondents

to answer considering the observation among the three treatments and the brick.
 32

Treatments Raw Materials and Quantity

Treatments 0 Commercial Concrete Brick

Treatment 1 750g Cement, 300g Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

Ash, 500g Sand, 460mL Water

Treatment 2 625g Cement, 200g Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

Ash, 625g Sand, 440ml Water

Treatment 3 500g Cement, 100g Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Shell

Ash, 750g Sand, 350ml Water

Data Gathering Tools

To determine the level of effectiveness of bricks with coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell

ash as aggregate in terms of durability, eco-friendly, and cost-efficient, the following scales

are used:

Durability

Numerical Value Descriptive Equivalent Rating Indicator

5 Very Highly Effective Very Highly Durable

4 Highly Effective Highly Durable

3 Moderately Effective Moderately Durable

2 Slightly Effective Slightly Durable

 33

1 Not Effective Not Durable

Eco-friendly

Numerical Value Descriptive Equivalent Rating Indicator

5 Very Highly Effective Most Eco-friendly

4 Highly Effective Very Eco-friendly

3 Moderately Effective Moderately Eco-friendly

2 Slightly Effective Somewhat Eco-friendly

1 Not Effective Least Eco-friendly

Cost-efficient

Numerical Value Descriptive Equivalent Rating Indicator

5 Very Highly Effective Very Cheap

4 Highly Effective Cheap

3 Moderately Effective Affordable

2 Slightly Effective Expensive

1 Not Effective Very Expensive

 34

Average Weight Mean Descriptive Equivalent Rating

4.21-5.00 Very Highly Effective

3.41-4.20 Highly Effective

2.61-3.40 Moderately Effective

1.81-2.60 Slightly Effective

1-1.80 Not Effective

 35

Appendix B
Frequency Distribution Table
Treatment 1.

TREATMENT 1

Level of Effectiveness Mean

Respondents

Durability Eco-friendly Cost-efficient

1 4.67
4 5 5

2 4.67
4 5 5

3 4.67
4 5 5

4 4.67
4 5 5

5 4.67
4 5 5

6 5.00
5 5 5

7 5.00
5 5 5

8 5.00
5 5 5

9 5.00
5 5 5

10 5.00
5 5 5

MEAN 4.50 5.00 5.00

 36

GRAND MEAN 4.83

Treatment 2.

TREATMENT 2

Level of Effectiveness Mean

Respondents

Durability Eco-friendly Cost-efficient

1
4 5 5 4.67

2
4 5 4 4.33

3
4 5 5 4.67

4
4 5 5 4.67

5
4 5 5 4.67

6
4 4 4 4.00

7
5 5 5 5.00

8
5 5 5 5.00

9
5 5 5 5.00

10
5 5 5 5.00

MEAN 4.40 4.90 4.80

GRAND MEAN 4.70

 37

Treatment 3.

TREATMENT 3

Level of Acceptability Mean

Respondents

Durability Eco-friendly Cost-efficient

1
3 4 5 4.00

2
3 5 4 4.00

3
4 4 4 4.00

4
3 4 5 4.00

5
4 5 5 4.67

6
3 3 3 3.00

7
5 5 5 5.00

8
5 5 5 5.00

9
5 5 5 5.00

10
5 5 5 5.00

MEAN 4.00 4.50 4.60

GRAND MEAN 4.37

 38

Appendix C
Statistical Calculations
ANOVA

VAR00001

Sum of Mean
Squar d Squar Si
es f e F g.

Between .0
2.9
Groups 1.162 2 .581 7
24
1

Within 2
5.365 .199
Groups 7

Total 2
6.527
9

Multiple Comparisons

Dependent VAR00
Variable: 001

95%
Confidenc
e Interval

Mean Lo Up
Differe Std. wer per
nce (I- Err Si Bo Bo
(I) Treatments J) or g. und und

Tukey HSD T1 T .7
.1340 .19 -.36 .62
2 8
0 935 03 83
1

T .0
.4680 .19 -.02 .96
3 6
0 935 63 23
6

T2 T .7
-.1340 .19 -.62 .36
1 8
0 935 83 03
1

T .2
.3340 .19 -.16 .82
3 3
0 935 03 83
3

T3 T -.4680 .19 .0 -.96 .02

 39

1 6
0 935 23 63
6

T .2
-.3340 .19 -.82 .16
2 3
0 935 83 03
3

VAR00001

Subse
t for
alpha
= 0.05

Treatments N 1

Tukey HSDa T3 1 4.367

0 0

T2 1 4.701
0 0

T1 1 4.835
0 0

Sig. .066

Tukey Ba T3 1 4.367
0 0

T2 1 4.701
0 0

T1 1 4.835
0 0

Means for groups in homogeneous

subsets are displayed.

a. Uses Harmonic Mean Sample

Size = 10.000.
 40

Appendix D
Plates

Firstly, prepare the materials needed.

Secondly, burn the coconut shell until it turns into ash.

Next, mix the coconut shell ash, sand, and cement until the mixture is uniform.

Then, gradually add water and mix

until reaching the desired consistency.
 41

After that, fill the brick molder with the mixture, ensuring it's tightly packed to remove any air
pockets.

Following this, allow the bricks to cure for at least 24 hours.

To prevent them from drying out too quickly, cover them with a damp cloth.

Finally, after the bricks have cured, remove them from the brick molder and let it dry completely.
 42

Final Product