Seaweed Biocomposite as a Green Construction Material

The choice of topic is inspired by growing need of finding more sustainable and
environmentally friendly materials in modern building industry. The answer for this
need can be new biological insulation materials, and seaweed is one of the most
promising one. This research aims to determine the compressive strength of mortar
cube based on a replacement ratio of 5% & 15% by seaweed (Gracilaria species). The
sample was washed until the pH value is neutral. Later, the samples were oven dried
at 105C for 24 hours and some are continued to be burnt at 600C for 3 hours to obtain
the sample in granular and powder form. The seaweed granules and seaweed ashes
were then analyzed and characterization tests were performed using brunauer, emmett
and teller (BET), field emission-scanning electron microscope (FESEM), x-ray
diffraction (XRD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Water absorption test
used to determine the total volume of permeable void will be described as well. The
sample was then incorporated into the mortar and the compressive strength was
determined at 3,7,14 and 28 days respectively. After 28 days, the compressive strength
test shows that 15% burnt sample has the highest compressive strength surpassing the
control mix design. Therefore, seaweed which is eco-friendly has the potential to act
as a substitute for green construction material.