SUSTAINABLE MODELLING OF COMPOSITE CEMENT BRICKS
Abstract
The growing demand for environmentally friendly construction materials has intensified interest in sustainable alternatives to conventional cement-based products. This study presents a sustainable modelling and performance evaluation of composite cement bricks produced from lateritic soil stabilized with cement blended with rice husk ash (RHA). Experimental investigations—including particle size distribution, compaction, pH, water absorption, and compressive strength tests—were conducted to assess the suitability of the soil and the structural performance of bricks with varying RHA replacement levels (0–25%) of cement. A modelling framework was used to interpret the influence of RHA–cement blends on strength development and durability indices. The results show that the lateritic soil had favourable geotechnical properties, including moderate plasticity and a well-graded particle size distribution appropriate for compressed earth brick (CEB) production. Compressive strength increased with curing time across all mixes, with optimal performance recorded at 10–15% RHA replacement, reaching 4.8–5.0 N/mm² at 90 days due to enhanced pozzolanic activity. Water absorption values remained under the 15% threshold for mixes containing up to 20% RHA, confirming adequate durability. The modelling outcomes highlighted the beneficial contribution of RHA to long-term strength and moisture behaviour by improving matrix densification and reducing reliance on cement. Overall, the study demonstrates that composite cement bricks incorporating up to 20% RHA provide a sustainable, cost-effective, and structurally reliable alternative for low-carbon construction. The findings support the integration of agro-waste pozzolans into earthen construction systems and provide practical insights for scalable, eco-efficient building material production.
KEYWORDS: Rice Husk Ash (RHA), Sustainable composite, Construction Materials, Compressed Earth Bricks (CEBs,) Lateritic Soil Stabilization, Pozzolanic Cement Replacement
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