Influence of Different Curing Conditions on Some Properties of Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI) Leterite Interlocking Bricks

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the influence of different curing conditions on some properties of Nigerian building and road research institute (NBRRI) literate interlocking bricks. The constituent materials were tested and batched by weight, using 1:6, as mix proportion as suggested in the Nigerian National Building Code and Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute. The bricks with dimensions 250 × 130 × 220 mm3 were cast using NBRRI semi-automatic brick production machine. The bricks were cured using seven different curing conditions. The seven curing regimes adopted in the work were Condition “A”: Using tarpaulin and covering bricks and sprinkling water morning and evening twice a day. Condition “B”: wet curing throughout (by complete immersion in portable water and covering with tarpaulin Condition “C”: Using water and air-tight polythene bags. Condition “D”: Use wet hessian and polythene sheets to cover the bricks. Condition “E”: By keeping the bricks under dry laboratory conditions. Condition “F”: By curing the bricks in the open air under direct sunshine. Condition “G”: keeping in the open air under a shed. For all other curing conditions, the tests conducted on the bricks were bulk density, water absorption, durability and compressive strength at the end of every curing period. It was concluded that the highest gain in average bulk density, water absorption, durability and compressive strength was recorded for bricks completely covered with water and air-tight polythene bags. The bricks cured in the open air under direct sunshine recorded the lowest strength. Based on the results of the study the curing condition “C” is regarded as the best curing condition regime