Comparative Analysis of the Properties of Mortar Produced with Palm Kernel Oil Cake (PKOC)

The study explores and compares the properties of mortar produced with palm kernel oil cake (PKOC) as partial replacement of sand to traditional cement/sand mortar. Having reviewed some relevant literature on the topic, samples of materials required were collected and batched by volume to a mix proportion of (1:3). The PKOC replacement varies from 0%, 12.5%, 25% and 37.5% with water to 0.3. A total of 16 cubes was molded, cured for 21 days, subjected to various tests at each percentage replacement. The weight and density of the PKOC samples are found to be lighter than the control sample. It was observed that the compressive strength decreases from 12.5% upwards of PKOC aggregate replacement. Also, the water absorption decreases as the PKOC aggregate replacement increases. And it was finally recommended that before one can use PKOC as a partial replacement in traditional cement/sand mortar, its content should not exceed 12.5%. Keywords: Palm kernel, palm kernel oil cake, mortar, properties of mortar DOI: 10.7176/CER/12-6-06 Publication date:June 30th 202

The Characteristics and Management Practices of Public Toilets in Wa, Ghana

Public toilets are an important sanitation option that responds to the sanitary needs of the urban poor and transient populace. This research, therefore seeks to explore the characteristics and, the operation and maintenance practices of public toilets in Wa Township. All the public toilet facilities in Wa were purposively selected and considered under this study. The use of qquestionnaires, survey and key informant interviews were employed to solicit the required data that were analysed to generate the desired outcomes. The results indicate that sanitary conditions of most public toilet facilities were in a sorry state and need urgent improvement. The findings of the study further suggested that poor supervision, lack of regular and adequate on-site water supply, lack of training on toilet management and maintenance has contributed to the sorry state of most toilet facilities. In line with the findings, the study recommends the resourcing and tooling of Environmental Health Officers of the Municipal Assembly for effective and intensive monitoring of the public toilet facilities to ensure operators comply with the guidelines for the provision, operation, and maintenance of public toilets The study further recommends the establishment of a sludge treatment plant or a dedicated and regulated site for the dumping of faecal sludge. Key words Public Toilet, Faecal, Sludge, Management DOI: 10.7176/CER/12-6-08 Publication date:June 30th 202