Indonesian Journal of Computing, Engineering, and Design
Vol. 8 No. 2 (2026): IJoCED

Investigation of Cement Bricks Partially Replaced with Cocopeat and Silico-Manganese Slag

Lim Yong Tat (School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, Sarawak, MALAYSIA)
Nicholas Vun Thaw Chung (Centre for Research of Innovation and Sustainable Development, School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia)
Jen Hua Ling (Centre for Research of Innovation and Sustainable Development, School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia)
Azrul bin Zulwali Kifli (Centre for Research of Innovation and Sustainable Development, School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia)
Mastura Bujang (Centre for Research of Innovation and Sustainable Development, School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia)
Mazizah Ezdiani Mohamad (Centre for Research of Innovation and Sustainable Development, School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia)
Qurratu Aini Binti Siat (Centre for Research of Innovation and Sustainable Development, School of Engineering and Technology, University of Technology Sarawak, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak, Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 Oct 2026

Abstract

The rising demand for construction materials has led to significant consumption of natural resources, particularly sand and cement, which are essential for making cement bricks. To address this issue, research has been conducted on incorporating waste materials from agricultural and industrial sources, such as cocopeat (CP) and silico-manganese (SiMn) slag as partial replacements in cement bricks. In this study, several samples of cement bricks were prepared using a sand-to-cement ratio of 1:2.5, a water-to-cement ratio of 0.5, and replacement materials consisting of 5–15% CP and 10–20% SiMn. The results revealed that higher CP content decreases compressive strength and density due to its porous structure, whereas SiMn increases strength by enhancing particle packing and acting as a binding agent. With that, the optimal mix was identified at 5% CP and 15–20% SiMn, which achieved improved strength while maintaining water absorption within industrial standard requirements, thereby ensuring structural durability. Additionally, the partial replacement of sand and cement with cocopeat and silico-manganese slag reduced the density of the bricks, making them easier to handle and decreasing structural loads. The use of CP and SiMn not only supports sustainable waste management but also improves the mechanical properties of the bricks. 

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJOCED

Publisher

Subject

Arts Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & Bioengineering Computer Science & IT Engineering Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Materials Science & Nanotechnology Mechanical Engineering

Description

Indonesian Journal of Computing, Engineering and Design (IJoCED) is an international and open access peer-reviewed journal, published by Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Sampoerna University. IJoCED published original research papers, state of the art reviews and innovative projects on topics ...