Karakteristik batako sekam padi dengan tambahan damdex sebagai alternatif material bangunan ditinjau dari kuat tekan, daya serap air, dan biaya produksi

Abstract

Rice husks are an abundant agricultural waste product that is often underutilized. Their use as a mixture in the manufacture of bricks is an innovative alternative in supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly development. This study aims to examine the characteristics of rice husk-based bricks with the addition of Damdex as an additive, focusing on compressive strength, water absorption, and production costs. Rice husk is used as a partial substitute for fine aggregate, while Damdex is added to enhance the mechanical properties and water resistance of the bricks. The research method involved the production of brick samples with varying compositions of rice husk and Damdex at 2% of the cement weight. Compressive strength and water absorption tests were conducted in accordance with SNI 03-0349-1989, and production costs were compared with those of Bricon lightweight bricks. Test results showed that bricks with a mixture ratio of 1.5 cement : 2.5 filler : 5 rice husk and the addition of 2% Damdex had compressive strength meeting the standard at 36.94 kg/cm², lower water absorption, and more efficient production costs. These findings indicate that rice husk bricks with Damdex addition have the potential to become an economical, environmentally friendly, and technically viable alternative building material.