Uses of sawdust as admixture in production of lowcost and light-weight hollow sandcrete blocks

Abstract

Prompted by the high cost of building materials as well as the amount of dead load weight generated by block wall on beams and columns in partitioning works most especially in high rise buildings, this project work on the use of sawdust as admixture in production of hollow sandcrete blocks was carried out in order to investigate a possible solution to the problems. The research work understudies the weight vis-a-vis cost of production of available commercial sandcrete blocks in Lagos metropolis. It has been observed that prices of construction blocks were typically above the reach of many Nigerians. Production of sandcrete blocks were made by partial replacement of sand with a varying proportion (10%, 20%, 30% and 40%) of sawdust. The strength of each block was determined to ascertain conformity with the minimum acceptable standards. Equally, the weights were checked and compared with blocks devoid of sawdust. The tests were carried out on the 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after production. From data gathered, recommendations were given which will be beneficial to the construction industry and general populace in respect of low cost and light weight sandcrete blocks. It is concluded that if the recommendations herein should be followed, problems of cost and weight in building construction shall be reduced.