Investigation of mechanical and thermal performances and masonry quality for new raw soil-based insulating hollow bricks

Abstract

ABSTRACT The development of raw soil-based insulating hollow bricks (RSIHB) provides a promising way for improving the efficiency of building energy conversation and resource utilization of construction waste soil. In this paper, the response surface method (RSM) was adopted to study the effect of multifactor on mechanical and thermal performances of modified raw soil-based samples. The results indicate that the thermal conductivity is significantly affected by the interactions between molding pressure and mixture moisture content, as well as between mixture moisture content and cement admixture. Thus, the optimal mix ratio was determined by the RSM-based regression model. The assessment based on numerical simulation demonstrates that the middle wall ribs immensely improve the stress concentration. The porous structure elongates the path of heat flow conduction, effectively enhancing the thermal resistance of the brick. In addition, bonding strength tests manifest that the mortar consistency should be within 60–80 mm for construction and plastering of the new raw soil-based insulating hollow brick. The research results have strong theoretical significance and practical value for recycling of construction waste and provide a reference for actual production and construction.