Strength and Erosion Characteristics of Earth Blocks and Earth Block Masonry
Publication: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 16, Issue 5
Abstract
Initially, the paper describes methods currently used for strength and erosion resistance testing of earth blocks. Following this, an experimental study undertaken to assess the influence of test procedure and specimen geometry on strength and erosion characteristics is presented. Cement stabilized pressed earth blocks were fabricated using different blended soils and compacted using a constant volume manual press. The effects of specimen geometry on experimental compressive strength are described and aspect ratio correction factors for unconfined unit strength outlined. Proposals for a unified approach to compression strength testing are also suggested. Bending strength testing is commonly used as an indirect method of strength assessment, as it is more readily suited to in-situ quality control testing than compression testing. The experimental correlation between compressive and bending strengths is presented. Results of compression tests on masonry walls are also presented together recommendations for design. Finally, the influence of test method and specimen geometry on erosion resistance and the correlation with block strength is discussed.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering
Volume 16 • Issue 5 • October 2004
Pages: 497 - 506
Copyright
Copyright © 2004 ASCE.
History
Received: Nov 26, 2002
Accepted: Dec 17, 2003
Published online: Oct 1, 2004
Published in print: Oct 2004
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