Modelling and Optimization of Mass Density for Strength and Durability of Sandcrete Block from Okhuare in Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The compressive strength of sandcrete block is a very important aspect of a block in a building. In many cases of building failures in Nigeria, the strength of the sandcrete block, has been figured as one of the causes of the failure. Hence the objective of this paper was to model and optimize the mass density for strength and durability of sandcrete block from okhuare in Edo State, Nigeria using standard methods. The mass of block was minimized, density was maximized, failure load was maximized, water absorption was minimized and compressive strength was maximized. Mass is 27.3287, density is 2149.19, failure load is 234.861, water absorption is 6.60831 and compressive strength is 4.08817. The optimum value of process parameters were determined. Water is 0.56, cement is 0.42, sand is 10.00.The experiment was performed and the results accurately measured and a mathematical model that can adequately explain the effects of the process parameters on the strength and durability of the sandcrete block was developed and the most significant factor influencing the strength of the block was identified.