Fly Ash-Lime Lateritic Compressed Stabilized Earth Bricks for Low Cost Housing

Abstract

This study assessed the mechanical and durability properties of compressed stabilized earth bricks (CSEB) made from laterite soil, stabilized with various proportions of fly ash and lime (4% to 12%). Tests conducted on the soil sample and fly ash used for the research proved that the soil is True Laterite (S-S=1.03<1.33) and the fly ash is Class F pozzolana (SiO2 + Al2O3 + Fe2O3 =74.69%>70%). A total of 165 CSEB samples were produced and the research identified various properties as a result of changing the proportion of the stabilizers. The findings of the study revealed that compressive strength values of CSEB 8 (5% fly ash, 5% lime) at the 28th day and CSEB 11 (6% fly ash, 6% lime) at the 14th and 28th days as 1.72 N/mm2, 1.69 N/mm2 and 2.02 N/mm2 respectively met the requirement for construction material in rural houses, bungalow houses and low rise buildings. The mean bulk density values ranged from 1727.35 to 1865.35 kg/m3. for all curing age. From water absorption test results, all values obtained fell below the maximum recommendation except for CSEB 1 (2% fly ash, 2% lime) and CSEB 2 (4% fly ash, 2% lime) as specified by NIS 87 (2004) and NBRRI (2008).