EVALUATION OF LOCALLY PRODUCED BURNT CLAY BRICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The rising cost of building materials has become a major constraint to the provision of low-cost housing in Nigeria, particularly in the face of the current economic downturn. Cost considerations remain a critical factor in building construction, and although cement-based technology is widely adopted due to its convenience, it is relatively expensive. This has created the need to explore cheaper and locally available alternatives to cement-based construction materials in order to promote affordable yet durable housing for the Nigerian population. This study investigates the suitability of locally produced burnt clay bricks as an alternative to conventional sand–cement blocks. The research involved on-site observations of the brick production process, as well as laboratory analyses of the geotechnical properties and chemical composition of the soil used in brick production. A total of eight locally produced burnt brick samples were tested to determine their compressive strength, water absorption capacity, and efflorescence characteristics. The results showed mean compressive strengths of 5.824 N/mm² and 2.945 N/mm² for domestic pavement bricks and walling bricks, respectively. The average water absorption values were 10.82% for pavement bricks and 10.27% for walling bricks, with pavement bricks exhibiting slightly higher water absorption. The findings indicate that locally produced burnt bricks possess properties that make them a viable and cost-effective alternative to sand–cement blocks for low-cost housing applications.

KEYWORDS: Locally produced burnt bricks, Lateritic soil, Compressive strength, Low-cost housing, Sustainable construction materials.

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