Work

Mechanical and Physical Performance of Mortars Incorporating Crushed Hazelnut Shells as Partial Fine Aggregate Replacement

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the mechanical and physical properties of mortars incorporating crushed hazelnut shell (HS) as a partial replacement for fine aggregates. Mortar mixtures were prepared with varying water‐to‐cement (w/c) ratios ranging from 0.35 to 0.50 and HS dosages of 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% by weight, along with reference mixtures without HS. The mechanical performance, abrasion resistance, water absorption, and setting times of the mixtures were evaluated. Results showed that incorporating 2.5%–7.5% of crushed HS increased water absorption by up to 60% and reduced compressive and flexural strengths by 35% and 25%, respectively. However, the addition of HS attenuated autogenous and drying shrinkage by up to 45% and delayed the setting time by approximately 40%, indicating beneficial internal curing effects. Although the inclusion of HS leads to a decrease in strength, it contributes to improved dimensional stability and sustainability. Therefore, crushed HS can be considered a viable material for nonstructural, eco‐friendly mortar applications where moderate strength reduction is acceptable.

Source: Advances in Materials Science and Engineering

DOI: 10.1155/amse/6478019