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Strength and durability performance of stabilised soil block masonry units

Research output: Chapter in Book or Conference Publication/ProceedingConference Publicationpeer-review

Abstract

This paper presents the findings from laboratory strength and durability tests on stabilised soil blocks (SSBs). SSBs are masonry units formed by compressing a mixture of soil and a stabiliser such as cement and water in a mould. The strength, density and stiffness of SSBs with 5%, 7,5%, 10% and 20% cement by mass were determined at 7, 14 and 28 days . The SSBs were subjected to different curing regimes to determine the best curing method. The ability of the masonry units to resist prevailing rain, wetting and drying cycles, freezing and thawing cycles, and chemical attack are critical if they are to be used in a European climate. The durability of these blocks was evaluated by cyclic freezing/thawing and wetting /drying tests, as well as by determining the shrinkage, sorptivity and absorption characteristics of the blocks. Through this extensive testing program, it was found that SSBs are a suitable and viable technology for use in a European climate.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationGlobal Thinking in Structural Engineering
Subtitle of host publicationRecent Achievements
PublisherInternational Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)
ISBN (Electronic)9783857481253
Publication statusPublished - 2012
EventIABSE 2012 Spring Conference on Global Thinking in Structural Engineering: Recent Achievements - Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Duration: 7 May 20129 May 2012

Publication series

NameGlobal Thinking in Structural Engineering: Recent Achievements

Conference

ConferenceIABSE 2012 Spring Conference on Global Thinking in Structural Engineering: Recent Achievements
Country/TerritoryEgypt
CitySharm El Sheikh
Period7/05/129/05/12

Keywords

  • brickwork & masonry
  • Durability
  • Stabilised Soil Blocks (SSBs)
  • Strength and testing of materials
  • Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) sustainability

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