In the heart of Nairobi, researchers are churning out innovations that could revolutionize the construction industry, particularly in regions prone to lateral loads. Edmond Didier Medongou Tejiogho, a dedicated researcher from the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation, hosted at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, is at the forefront of this transformative work. His recent study, published in Engineering Reports, delves into the flexural performance of metakaolin-stabilized compressed earth brick (CEB) walls with cement-soil mortar joints, offering a sustainable solution for buildings in earthquake-prone areas.
The construction industry is under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable materials and practices. Traditional building materials like concrete and steel have significant environmental footprints, driving the need for eco-friendly alternatives. Compressed earth bricks (CEBs) have emerged as a promising solution, but their performance under lateral loads has been a concern. This is where Tejiogho’s research comes into play.
Metakaolin, a byproduct of the kaolin calcination process, has shown potential as a stabilizing agent for CEBs. Tejiogho’s study investigates how metakaolin stabilization can enhance the flexural strength of CEB walls, making them more resilient to lateral forces. “The bond between the CEBs and the mortar is crucial for the wall’s flexural strength,” Tejiogho explains. “We aimed to optimize this bond by determining the appropriate cement-soil mortar mix and metakaolin content.”
The research involved testing CEB samples with varying metakaolin content, ranging from 0% to 19%. The optimum metakaolin content was found to be 11%, with the best cement-soil mortar mix at a ratio of 1:0.75:5.25. Walls made with these optimized metakaolin-stabilized CEBs showed a remarkable 79.17% improvement in flexural strength compared to unstabilized brick walls. This significant enhancement meets and exceeds the standards set by British Standard 5628 for lateral load resistance.
The implications of this research are vast, particularly for the energy sector. As the world shifts towards renewable energy, the need for resilient infrastructure to support these technologies is paramount. Solar farms, wind turbines, and other renewable energy installations often require robust, sustainable building materials. Metakaolin-stabilized CEBs could be the answer, providing a durable, eco-friendly solution for these critical structures.
Moreover, the use of metakaolin, a byproduct, aligns with the circular economy principles, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. “This research supports the development of design guidelines for eco-friendly stabilized earth bricks,” Tejiogho notes. “It’s a step towards promoting sustainable building solutions that can withstand lateral loads, making them ideal for regions prone to earthquakes and other natural disasters.”
The study, published in Engineering Reports, which translates to “Engineering Reports” in English, marks a significant milestone in the quest for sustainable construction materials. As the construction industry continues to evolve, innovations like metakaolin-stabilized CEBs could shape the future of building practices, offering a resilient, eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials. The energy sector, in particular, stands to benefit greatly from these advancements, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future.
