Evaluation of properties of compressed earth block

Abstract

In a reinforced concrete (RC) frame structure building, partition wall has very low compressive stress. To replace traditional fired brick, environment friendly Compressed Earth Block (CEB) may be used as partition wall. This study investigated the feasibility of using CEB as interior and exterior partition wall. Soil samples were collected from 8 traditional brick fields and their index properties and percentage of sand were determined for selecting suitable soil for making CEB. After that, standard proctor test was performed for the selected soil sample to know the optimum moisture content under which maximum compaction can be achieved which will ensure the maximum strength also. A mould with a dimension 241mm x 114mm x 203mm was made for making CEB and 36 bricks were made using compression testing machine. Compressive strength test was performed after 7 days and 28 days maturation of brick whereas absorption capacity was determined for 24 hours submergence under water for different conditions i.e. normal CEB, CEB with slurry coating and CEB with plaster coating. From this study it is concluded that CEB is feasible for using it as interior wall but not as external wall in flood prone areas. Cement slurry and plaster coating could not reduce absorption capacity of CEB. Cement plaster coating has very little use in case of reducing absorption capacity of CEB. Soil composition used for making fired brick in Bangladesh is not suitable for making CEB because of presence of very low percentage of sand. There is always a certain range of moisture content for which CEB gains its maximum strength. Certain moisture content ensures maximum compaction of soil sample inside the mould.