Challenge to enhance the value of the Cameroonian coastal earth: physical tests and mechanical characterization of earth material

Abstract

One of the main performances of earth material is the thermal regulation. The aim of this study is centered on the possibility of applying the grunge of the Cameroonian Coast for its suitable valorisation. Thus focusing on the parliamentary law so as to be capable of supplying, first, a material with a reduced polluting impact and secondly one with which the thermal comfort of the building would be amended; all these for the population of the Cameroonian Coast. The identification results assure the possibility of using the earth of the Cameroon coastal region for CEB with a grain size distribution even though the crater spindle contained shows a discontinuous tray type. Again, this study aims at showing the possibility of using this earth material for the manufacturing of porcelain, sanitary ware and tableware. As far as the characteristics are concerned, a convergence of the grading, mineralogical and chemical results show a medium-active kaolinite-type clay and a sandy loamy-clay earth. That's why for in-depth knowledge major elements and minerals have been identified by X-ray fluorescence and X-ray diffraction. The mechanical tests carried out on the clay show a sufficient plasticity in the wet state, even though it is also pointing out possibilities of improving these performances by using adequate stabilizers.