In the heart of Malaysia, researchers are turning agricultural waste into a building material of the future, with implications that could reshape the energy sector’s approach to construction. The humble oil palm shell, typically discarded as waste, is being transformed into a lightweight, sustainable aggregate for concrete, thanks to innovative surface treatment techniques.
N. Ahmad Zamri, a researcher from the College of Built Environment at Universiti Teknologi MARA, is at the forefront of this revolution. His recent study, published in the journal ‘Materiales de Construccion’ (translated to ‘Construction Materials’), explores the use of styrene acrylic emulsion (SAE) to enhance the properties of oil palm shell (OPS) concrete. The findings could pave the way for more durable, sustainable structures in the energy sector, where the demand for robust, lightweight materials is ever-increasing.
The oil palm industry is a significant player in the global economy, particularly in Southeast Asia. However, it generates vast amounts of waste, including oil palm shells. “Instead of letting these shells end up in landfills, we can repurpose them as lightweight aggregates in concrete,” Zamri explains. This not only reduces waste but also aligns with sustainable building practices, a growing priority in the energy sector.
However, incorporating OPS into concrete presents challenges. The porous nature of OPS can lead to increased water absorption, reduced durability, and compromised mechanical strength. To overcome these hurdles, Zamri and his team turned to SAE, a water-based polymer emulsion commonly used in paints and coatings.
The researchers applied different SAE coatings to the OPS and assessed their impact on the concrete’s permeability and dry shrinkage. The results were promising. “The SAE treatment enhances the particle density of OPS, reduces water absorption, and improves adhesion between the OPS and the cement matrix,” Zamri notes. This translates to improved concrete strength and durability, making OPS concrete a viable option for energy sector applications.
The potential commercial impacts are significant. Lightweight concrete can reduce the structural load on buildings, leading to cost savings in materials and construction. Moreover, the enhanced durability of SAE-treated OPS concrete could extend the lifespan of structures, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
But the benefits extend beyond the energy sector. As cities grow and resources become scarcer, the demand for sustainable, lightweight building materials will only increase. This research could shape future developments in construction, driving innovation in waste management and sustainable building practices.
Zamri’s work is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research. By bridging the gap between agriculture and construction, he and his team are turning waste into opportunity, one oil palm shell at a time. As the energy sector continues to evolve, so too will the materials that support it. And thanks to researchers like Zamri, the future of construction looks lighter, stronger, and more sustainable.
