An Experimental Evaluation of the Impact of Moulding Moisture Content on the Compressive Strength of Unstabilised Compressed Earth Blocks

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the compressive strength and moulding moisture content (MMC) of unstabilized compressed earth blocks (USCEB) made from two locally accessible soil types, Than Mann (TM) and Karambai (KB). In accordance with IS 2720 (parts 4 and 5) and IS 383 standards, the physical characteristics of TM and KB are also determined. Using the ITGE VOTH machine, 24 sets of 3 USCEB, each measuring 230 × 190 × 100 mm, are cast using TM & KB in the following ratios: 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50. The moisture contents (in %) of each mixture are 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 accordingly. For a minimum of 10 days, the created USCEB is stored outside in normal weather conditions. Based on the findings, it can be shown that in all of the mixes, the dry density rises as MMC increases up to a certain moisture content before beginning to fall. This is termed as “optimal moisture content” (OMC). Additionally, it has been found that the mixture corresponding to a 60:40 ratio produces the highest dry density for a given MMC. The maximum dry density for this mixture is also known as the maximum dry density. The compressive strength test for the 60:40 mixture was then conducted. The USCEB's maximum compressive strength of 9% moisture content was obtained. This study will enable us to determine how much water should be supplied to the soil mixtures in the USCEB for proper compaction during moulding. This research provides evidence for the contribution of MMC to USCEB’s dry density. It is also proved that the proportion of clay and sand in a particular soil influences the OMC at which is to be conducted.