Abstract

This current article explores the possibility of adding aggregate (10 mm size) to sandcrete mixes in order to enhance the strength of the sandcrete blocks. Four different kinds of mixes were made; the first one was used as a reference without the addition of course aggregate, and in the remaining three, course aggregates were added in percentages of 5, 10 and 15% by volume of the reference mix. Laboratory experimental tests were carried out in order to obtain the compressive strengths of the blocks moulded at 14, 21 and 28 days, respectively. The results of the tests revealed that the higher the percentage course aggregate content in the mix, the higher the compressive strength of the blocks. The improvement in the compressive strength was 12.78% more when 15% of the course aggregate was added as compared to 0% of the course aggregate in the mix.

Key words: Sandcrete blocks, cement, coarse aggregates, compressive strength.