Optimizing laterite cement blocks in the construction of masonry using quarry dust

Abstract

Laterite soils mixed with Portland cement are used worldwide in making blocks. However, due to the environmental effects associated with the high usage of cement, quarry dust proved to be a good substitute for partial replacement of Portland cement. This study investigates the optimisation of laterite-cement blocks as walling materials using quarry dust. Physical properties of experimental soil were determined, and other tests such as compressive strength, density, water absorption were conducted on sample blocks under curing periods of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. The blocks comprised of different percentages of laterite soil (76%, 81%, 85% and 87%), quarry dust (9% and 10% by weight of the soil) and ordinary Portland cement (3%, 5%, 10% and 15% by weight of the soil. The results showed that cement content of 10% and 9% quarry dust was suitable for the block at any curing period above 7 days. The compressive strength increased with an increase in the curing period no matter the percentage of the materials used in the study. The study recommends the usage of quarry dust in cement laterite blocks. However, further investigation on other vital parameters like abrasion resistance test could be conducted.