Effects of accelerating agent and SiO2 nano-powder on the mechanical and physical characteristics of nut shell-cement based composites

In this study, the feasibility of almond/walnut shells as a renewable underutilized agricultural waste for cement based panel manufacturing was investigated. The effect of the bio waste (30, 40 and 50 wt%), nano-SiO2 (3, 4 and 5 wt%) and calcium chloride (5 and 7 wt%) on bending strength (modulus of rupture), bending modulus (modulus of elasticity), internal bonding, water absorption and thickness swelling was investigated. The morphology of the specimens was characterized using scanning electron microscopy technique. Based on the result, it is technically possible to use almond/ walnut shells as an alternative raw material or filler in the manufacture of cement based panels for interior or exterior usages without additional treatment.