Some mixes were prepared as a control mix in order to compare the physical and chemical properties of cement using
100% ordinary Portland cement with no olive waste filler addition. Olive waste filler additions were then added with a weight
increment of 3% varying from 3% to 15%. For all mixes, the normal consistency, setting time (initial and final), bulk density,
soundness, compressive and flexural strength using the standards of ASTM were determined. The normal consistency for the
fresh control and blended cement pastes were determined using Vicat Apparatus according to ASTM: C187-04. Normal
consistency is used to determine the amount of water required to penetrate the Vicat testing needle by 10 mm.
For setting times (initial and final); Vicat apparatus according to the ASTM C191-08 testing standard was used. Blended
cement pastes prepared using the required water according to the normal consistency was used to determine initial setting
time. The initial setting time was measured to penetrate the Vicat testing needle of 1 mm diameter by 25 mm. When there
was no penetration of the needle observed, the final setting time was determined.
The Soundness of the cement pastes was determined according to ASTM C151 method using an autoclave to investigate
the olive waste influence on the length changes of the specimens. The Bulk Density was carried out in accordance to the
European Norms (EN 1015). A sample of three prismatic specimens of 40 40 160 mm was used for the different
replacement percentages.
A set of three cubic specimens of mortar and curing time were used for the determination of compressive strength
according to ASTM C-109. The specimens were cast in steel molds (50 mm 50 mm 50 mm). The mortar was placed into
one cubic mold. After the top layer was compacted, the surface was smoothed. After molding, the specimens were first at
room temperature 23 1C for 24 h then the cube specimens were de-molded. Then, the specimens were cured up to 3, 7, and
28 days.