EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF CLAY BRICKS WITH PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF CLAY WITH STONE DUST POWDER

Civil Engineering

In response to the growing need for sustainable construction materials, this study investigates the potential of incorporating stone dust powder as a partial replacement for clay in oven-dried brick production. The research aims to comprehensively assess the influence of varying proportions of stone dust on the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of bricks. Through a systematic experimental approach, soil and stone dust samples are collected, prepared, and subjected to a battery of tests following established ASTM and IS standards. These tests include grain size analysis, specific gravity determination, Atterberg limits determination, free swell index measurement, compression testing, water absorption assessment, and efflorescence testing. The findings of this study shed light on several important aspects of brick production with stone dust incorporation. Analysis of soil characteristics identifies it as sandy silt with gravel and sand constituents, laying the groundwork for subsequent experimentation. The sieve analysis reveals the particle size distribution of both soil and stone dust, informing their suitability for brick manufacturing. Specific gravity measurements offer insights into the density and compactness of the materials, crucial factors affecting brick structural integrity. Evaluation of Atterberg limits provides crucial data on the plasticity and moisture susceptibility of the soil and stone dust mixtures, guiding material selection and proportioning. Free swell index testing elucidates the volume change behavior of the mixtures when exposed to water, offering valuable information for predicting brick performance in various environmental conditions. Compression testing assesses the load-bearing capacity and structural integrity of the bricks, revealing the influence of stone dust incorporation on compressive strength. Challenges encountered during water absorption and efflorescence testing underscore the importance of further investigation into manufacturing processes to address potential weaknesses in brick composition or production methods. Despite these challenges, the study contributes significantly to the body of knowledge surrounding sustainable construction materials by exploring alternative raw materials and manufacturing techniques. The insights gained from this research have the potential to inform brick manufacturing practices, offering opportunities for enhancing structural performance, durability, and environmental sustainability in the construction industry.

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