Effect of dimensional variation of CSE blocks

Abstract

Compressed stabilized earth (CSE) blocks are one of the alternative building materials that are becoming popular due to insufficiency of conventional building materials and its sustainability. CSE blocks are manufactured with different unit dimensions. This research is focused on determination of effect of unit dimensions of CSE blocks on masonry construction. Unit dimensions basically affect on the compressive strength and cost of construction of masonry. Ratio of height to least horizontal dimension (H/W) is a governing factor of compressive strength. In this research, plain CSE blocks having H/W ratio of less than 0.6 have been considered for which there is no provision for characteristics strength (fk) of masonry in BS 5628: part1:1992 [6]. Four different sizes of blocks with H/W ratio of less than 0.6 were used for the test. Relationships between Characteristic compressive strength of masonry, unit strength, and H/W ratio and load deformation characteristics were developed. Studies were done to determine the cost of construction of each panel. Results show that strengths of all panels are adequate for load bearing construction. Wall strengths increases with the H/W ratio. Panels provide a sufficient warning before ultimate failure. When the H/W ratio is close to 0.6 panel strength is comparable with the values provided in Table 2.0 of BS 5628: part1:1992.