Comparative Evaluation on the Physical Properties of Sandcrete Blocks Employed in Building Construction Across Anambra State

Okeke Emmanuel Chukwuebuka; Umeokana Chijioke Steven; Ehimioboh Cosmas; Oseyende

doi:10.56201/ijemt.vol.11.no7.2025.pg223.230

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Comparative Evaluation on the Physical Properties of Sandcrete Blocks Employed in Building Construction Across Anambra State

Okeke Emmanuel Chukwuebuka, Umeokana Chijioke Steven, Ehimioboh Cosmas, Oseyende

Abstract

This study evaluates the physical properties of sandcrete blocks employed in building construction across Anambra State, Nigeria, focusing on nine samples (A–I) comprising both machine-moulded (A–F) and hand-moulded (G–I) blocks of varying sizes and types (9-inch hollow, 6-inch hollow, and 6-inch solid). Key parameters measured include block size, density, water absorption, and thermal conductivity. Nine block samples were analyzed, revealing that machine-moulded blocks possess significantly higher densities (up to 2120 kg/m³) and lower thermal conductivities (as low as 0.68 W/m.K) compared to hand-moulded blocks. When evaluated against the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS 87:2007), four machine-moulded samples met the minimum density requirement of 1920 kg/m³, while only two samples conformed to the more stringent British Standard (BS EN 771-3:2011) minimum of 2000 kg/m³. All blocks, however, remained within the acceptable water absorption threshold of 12%. The findings underscore the superior quality and performance of machine-moulded sandcrete blocks and highlight the need for improved production practices and stricter adherence to standards to ensure structural reliability, strength and durability of blocks use in construction. Furthermore, additional research is necessary to explore the potentials of alternative materials, such as maize straws or raffia palm fibres, as additives/admixture in sandcrete block production to enhance their strength and durability.

Keywords

Physical propertiesSandcrete BlocksBuilding ConstructionAnambra State

References

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Comparative Evaluation on the Physical Properties of Sandcrete Blocks Employed in Building Construction Across Anambra State

Abstract

Keywords

References

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