Evaluation of the Compressive Strength of Lateritic Bricks, Produced with Termite Clay Powder as Partial Replacement of Cement: A Case Study of Bekwarra, Cross-River State

The use of termite clay powder as a partial replacement for cement in the production of laterite bricks is a promising approach to reducing the cost and environmental impact of building materials production, particularly cement in Nigeria. The study used different proportions of termite clay powder as a partial replacement for cement in the production of laterite bricks. The bricks were tested for compressive strength in accordance with standard methods. Results from the test revealed the compressive strength of laterite bricks produced with termite clay powder as a partial replacement for cement varied depending on the proportion of termite clay powder used, with replacement levels of 0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50%. The compressive strength of the bricks increased as the proportion of termite clay powder increased up to a certain point. Beyond that point, the compressive strength decreased. The compressive strength of the bricks after a 7days hydration period was found to be of value 0.68N/mm2 with a 28days value of 2.81N/mm2, corresponding to a 0% cement replacement level, which is a level free from termite clay powder. The optimum compressive strength of the bricks with proportions of termite clay powder was found to be of value 2.51N/mm2 for a 28days hydration period, corresponding to a 10% cement replacement level. Therefore, it was affirmed that the suitable replacement level of cement with termite clay powder for the laterite brick production be kept at 10%, as further increase in termite clay powder content decreased the strength of the laterite bricks.