Journal of Construction and Building Materials Engineering

Utilizing Nano-Silica (NS) in Concrete Blends

Guru Sharan Mishra — 2024-04-26

Concrete is the most widely utilized material in construction, with its design consuming a
significant portion of global cement production. However, the extensive use of cement
contributes substantially to CO2 emissions, exacerbating the greenhouse effect. One strategy to
mitigate this environmental impact involves reducing cement content in concrete mixes by
incorporating silica fines. Nano-Silica (NS) is promisi n g as a cement substitute and concrete
additive among these fines. Nonetheless, the complex synthesis process of commercial NS
renders it impractical for the construction industry. Moreover, the precise impact of NS on
concrete still needs to be understood.
In a recent research endeavour, a novel nano-silica derived from olivine has been developed
and will be compared with commercially available NS through application and testing.
Additionally, modifications to a mix design tool utilized for Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC)
will be made to accommodate particles ranging in size from 10 to 50 nm. This paper
aims to provide an up-to-date overview of NS application in concrete, focusing on
optimizing its properties for effective integration. Topics covered include the NS production
process, its influence on concrete properties, and potential applications. Furthermore, an
outline of the experimental setup and proposed future research directions is presented.

Enhancing Residential Construction Efficiency: Evaluating Interlock Blocks as a Sustainable Alternative to Traditional Brick Construction (A Case Study of Private Housing in Setipakha Height, Lalitpur)

Subash Kumar Bhattarai — 2024-04-01

In Nepal, traditional clay red bricks have been extensively used in residential and commercial
construction, but their labour-intensive nature has prompted the exploration of alternative
construction materials. This study investigates the feasibility of using interlocking blocks as a
replacement for traditional bricks in residential housing, focusing on cost, strength, and socioeconomic
acceptance. Through a combination of literature review, lab tests, and on-site
observations, the properties of interlock blocks were evaluated and compared with traditional
bricks. The study area, Setipakha Height in Lalitpur, provided a suitable context for data
collection, given the prevalent use of interlock blocks in ongoing housing projects. Results from
compressive strength tests revealed that interlock blocks exhibited comparable strength to both
first- and second-class bricks, indicating their suitability for load-bearing applications.
Additionally, interlock blocks demonstrated lower water absorption rates compared to clay bricks,
suggesting enhanced durability and resistance to moisture-related issues. Furthermore, interlock
blocks showed higher density and consistency, potentially offering greater structural integrity and
material efficiency. Cost analysis indicated that interlock block masonry was more cost-effective
than traditional brick masonry, with potential savings in construction time and labour
requirements. Moreover, interlock blocks, when properly manufactured, could provide a
sustainable alternative to traditional bricks, reducing environmental impact. In conclusion,
interlock blocks present a promising alternative to traditional clay bricks in residential
construction, offering advantages in terms of strength, durability, cost-effectiveness, and
sustainability. Recommendations include the adoption of interlock blocks in construction projects,
further research on their long-term performance, regulatory considerations, and increased
awareness among stakeholders in the construction industry. Embracing interlock blocks has the
potential to revolutionize residential construction practices in Nepal, contributing to sustainable
development and meeting the housing needs of communities.

Optimizing Concrete Paver Block Production: A Linear Programming Approach for Enhanced Profitability in the Construction Industry

Uttam Neupane — 2024-04-26

As an operational optimization (maximization or minimization) methodology, linear programming (L.P.) in operation research has proven successful in several areas by offering logical outcomes to challenging issues, including resource constraints. The study aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical applications of L.P. and the practical needs of the construction industry, specifically focusing on determining the optimal production quantities of 60 mm and 40 mm concrete paver blocks for Janta Udhog Pvt. Ltd. as a case study to achieve maximum profitability, offering essential new insights into how L.P. may successfully handle the complex problems encountered by businesses in this industry. An interview with the owner of Janta Udhog Pvt. Ltd. was conducted to obtain the primary data for the study. Secondary data such as sale records, monthly demand of each product, and inventory records were also obtained to formulate a linear programming model. The model was then solved using the LINGO software. This research underscores the optimal production recommendations for Janta Udhog Pvt. Ltd., advising the manufacture of 566.67 units of the 60 mm block and 350 units of the 40 mm block, leading to a maximum daily profit of NPR 2966.67. By applying linear programming techniques, these findings contribute to a more informed and strategic decision-making approach in the construction sector. The study illuminates the benefits of utilizing linear programming in challenging situations, providing valuable insights for academics, business owners, and decision-makers.

Utilize the Industrial Waste Materials and By-Products for the Manufacture of Concrete for Road Construction

Tarique Anwer — 2024-04-10

Sustainable practices in the construction industry, particularly concerning the production of
cement and concrete. Investing in research and development initiatives to explore alternative
binders and construction materials can help mitigate reliance on traditional cement. Innovations
such as geo polymers, which utilize industrial waste streams like fly ash or slag, offer promising
alternatives to conventional Portland cement. Adopting a circular economy approach involves
reusing and recycling materials within the construction industry. Encouraging regulatory bodies
to establish standards and certifications for sustainable construction practices can incentivize the
adoption of environmentally friendly materials and processes within the industry. This can include
certifications such as LEED. BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental
Assessment Method) recognizes and promotes sustainable building practices. Concrete recycling
facilities can reclaim aggregates from demolished structures, reducing the demand for virgin
materials and minimizing waste sent to landfills of red mud-based concrete and found when red
mud percentages increased workability of red mud concrete decreased and also calculated the
compressive strength of M25 grade normal concrete and red mud based concrete and 12%
replacement showing better compressive strength compared to all.

An Overview of Ferrocement Construction Technology and Its Applications

Shivanshu Bhadoriya — 2024-01-30

Ferro cement, which is widely utilized in the creation of sculptures and prefabricated construction components, is thought to be advantageous for the preservation of the environment. The design and construction of the ferrocement, however, continue to receive scant attention in the literature. Additionally, there are several drawbacks to using ferrocement, namely the laborious and intricate procedure of connecting poles and nets. To address these drawbacks and enhance the characteristics of ferrocement, the research issue this paper aims to answer is how to examine the structure of the material during its manufacturing. This study engages in a discourse between ferro cement and concrete fabrication, with a greater emphasis on material and craft than on robots as the current state of the art in concrete fabrication. The process of creating steel plates from two dimensions to three dimensions and then assembling them into a steel skeleton is investigated by substituting steel for the typical wire mesh seen in ferrocement. Subsequently, the process of casting is examined to ensure that the cement mixture is integrated into the steel skeleton and adheres tightly to the steel surface by spraying. In addition, physical experimentation and computer software are used for the simulation and design. In summary, the study raises several issues for further investigation while demonstrating the potential of ferrocement free-forming and its use in (prefabricated) construction technology