Using Walnut Shell Waste as an Eco-Friendly Aggregate for Concrete

Abstract

Agricultural production currently generates large quantities of walnut shell waste. Therefore, the issue of efficient disposal of this waste is highly relevant. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of walnut shells as an environmentally friendly coarse aggregate in concrete production. In the experimental study, concretes were produced with varying walnut shell contents (WS), replacing a portion of the coarse mineral aggregate, ranging from 0% to 50% by volume in 10% increments. Concrete tests were conducted 28 days after production. Density, compressive strength, and water absorption were studied. The composite structure was also assessed using SEM methods, and structural quality factors were calculated. The results showed that concrete density decreased by 15.5% at 50% WS content. It was recorded that with an increase in the volume fraction of WS, compressive strength decreased by 45%, and water absorption increased by 53.4%, respectively. The optimal content WS accounts for 10% by volume. The WS-containing concretes developed in this study are environmentally friendly building materials with a reduced environmental impact and can be effectively used in green construction.