ADVANTAGE OF LATERITE OVER CLAY IN THE MANUFACTURE OF COMPRESSED STABILIZED EARTH BRICKS (CSEBs)

Abstract

Compressive strength characteristics and Rate of Water Absorption are the two important factors in the choice of soil types for the manufacture of Compressed Stabilised Earth blocks. Cement was used as the stabilizing agent in Laterite soil, in the ratio of cement : soil= 1 : 10. Similar proportion was used in the Clay Soil mix. After thoroughly mixing the soil mass, with sufficient quantity of water for each set of specimens, casting of blocks was carried out using standard moulds. Compaction is done at 14.0MPa, 21.0 MPa and 28.0MPa. The compressed Stabilised Earth Blocks are born. After removing the blocks from the mould, curing is done as per standard procedures. Tests were conducted on the specimens for i) Compressive strength, and ii) Moisture Absorption rate. The compressive strengths were achievable on the 28th day of Curing Age, was 7.45 N/sq.mm at 28.0 MPa of compaction in the case of Laterite Block, and 5.05 N/sq.mm, in the case of Clay Block. The rate of Moisture Absorption was 14.95% on the 28th day, at a compaction of 28.0MPa, in the Laterite Block. The corresponding Moisture Absorption rate in Clay Block was 21.05%. Laterite Blocks give a compressive strength of 7.45 N/sq.mm, and Clay Blocks give a compressive strength of 5.05 N/sq.mm, when 10% cement is added and a compaction of 28.0MPa is applied, in both cases, in the manufacturing process.