COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CEMENT STABILIZED SOIL BLOCKS (CSSB) SUBJECTED DIFFERENT CURING CONDITIONS

ABSTRACT

The effect of two different curing conditions on the compressive strength of cement stabilized soil blocks (CSSB) was investigated. Cement stabilization of 8% by weight was chosen best on the literature. The study is aimed at determining the optimum curing condition for CSSB. Basic properties of the soil used were determined to find its suitability in making CSSB. The two curing conditions used for the research are tagged ‘A’ and ‘B’.  Curing condition ‘A’ involves complete wrapping of CSSB blocks with tarpaulin and sprinkling with water twice a day to provide moist condition. While condition ‘B’ involves complete wrapping and spraying with water for each conventional curing ages and removing the blocks there after for open space curing without spraying water. The soil used in the study showed satisfactory performance for the production of the CSSB. Based on the test results, curing condition ‘B’ is recommended for use in the production of cement stabilized soil blocks, as it showed a better compressive strength after 21 days curing. However the compressive for both curing conditions increase with curing age up to 21 days curing.

Keywords: Cement Stabilized Soil Block; Alternative Curing; Compressive Strength; Stabilization