Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology

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A Comparative Study Between the Conventional Method and the Use of Powdered Activated Carbon in Iron Reduction from Groundwater
(2024) Andrew Mbabaali
This report was specifically looking at the comparison between the conventional treatment method (aeration followed by settling and filtration) and the use of Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) in an adsorbent filter in total iron reduction from groundwater sources. The PAC was prepared from sawdust. The water sample was collected from iron contaminated ground water source (borehole with hand pump). Both treatment methods indicated above (conventional and adsorption) were applied to check the total iron reduction from the ground water source and the results were compared in order to determine which method could be more effective in total iron reduction. Total iron levels were tested both before and after the treatment and the results showed that the conventional method was able to reduce the total iron concentration by 95.22% (from 41.44mg/L to 1.98mg/L) while on the other hand, PAC layer thicknesses of 2.5cm, 5cm, and 7.5cm were able to reduce the total iron concentration by 99.08%, 99.20%, and 99.40% respectively between 41.44mg/L and 0.38mg/L, 41.44mg/L and 0.33mg/L and 41.44mg/L and 0.25mg/L respectively . However, the reduced iron levels to (1.98mg/L and 0.33mg/L for conventional and PAC respectively) were still above the permissible limits compared to the Uganda National Standards for treated potable water which is 0.3mg/L. But since 0.33mg/L total iron is also within the permissible limit of the Uganda National Standards for untreated potable water (1mg/L), it was considered to be safe at household level.
A Comparative Study Between the Conventional Method and the Use of Powdered Activated Carbon in Iron Reduction from Groundwater
(2024-04-12) Eric Manede
This report was specifically looking at the comparison between the conventional treatment method (aeration followed by settling and filtration) and the use of Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC) in an adsorbent filter in total iron reduction from groundwater sources. The PAC was prepared from sawdust. The water sample was collected from iron contaminated ground water source (borehole with hand pump). Both treatment methods indicated above (conventional and adsorption) were applied to check the total iron reduction from the ground water source and the results were compared in order to determine which method could be more effective in total iron reduction. Total iron levels were tested both before and after the treatment and the results showed that the conventional method was able to reduce the total iron concentration by 95.22% (from 41.44mg/L to 1.98mg/L) while on the other hand, PAC layer thicknesses of 2.5cm, 5cm, and 7.5cm were able to reduce the total iron concentration by 99.08%, 99.20%, and 99.40% respectively between 41.44mg/L and 0.38mg/L, 41.44mg/L and 0.33mg/L and 41.44mg/L and 0.25mg/L respectively . However, the reduced iron levels to (1.98mg/L and 0.33mg/L for conventional and PAC respectively) were still above the permissible limits compared to the Uganda National Standards for treated potable water which is 0.3mg/L. But since 0.33mg/L total iron is also within the permissible limit of the Uganda National Standards for untreated potable water (1mg/L), it was considered to be safe at household level.
A Sacco Loan Management System: The Case Study of Kisoboka Farmer’s Sacco Ltd
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-27) Getrude Adrupio; Kevin Taimwa; Priscillar Nakintu
The SACCO Loan Management Information System is a computerized database of financial information organized and programmed in such a way that it produces regular reports on operations for every level of management in a SACCO; it is usually also possible to obtain special reports from the system easily. The general objective of the study was to design a loan management information system that could improve loan record handling and bring about timely Loan processing. The study's specific objectives of study were to investigate and gather data about the existing manual system being used at Kisoboka Farmers SACCO Ltd, analyze the requirements for the new system. Develop a loan management information system for Kisoboka Farmers' SACCO Ltd, and test and implement the new system. After gathering the requirements, entity relation diagrams and data flow diagrams were used to design the loan management information system. Microsoft Visual Basic 2005.net was used to create user interfaces and Microsoft Access was used to create the database. The SACCO loan management information system developed authenticates System users and enables them to capture and store loan records and client banking records, the system allows the users to view loan reports and Client payment records, also the system calculates payment denominations for loans [1]. The SACCO loan management information system reduces the burden of over-compiling papers and the need for more shelves which reduces congestion in Kisoboka Farmers' Sacco Ltd [2].
Accessing the Use of Calcined Quartzite Dust as a Fillertoenhance Rut Resistance in Asphalt Concrete
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Amule Lokorto Moise
Worldwide flexible pavements are mainly constructed with aggregates, bitumen and filler. This study aims to assess the use of Calcined quarzite dust (CQD) to enhance rut resistance in the asphalt concrete. The methods used were mechanical,physical, chemical to determine the engineering properties of aggregate, bitumen and filler used in this study; also Marshall test was conducted, as well as the Indirect tensile Strength (ITS) in relation with the Wheel Tracking Tests (WTT) to assess the performance on the asphalt mixture. Various tests were done during the study, various factors such as stability, flow, air voids,voids filled with binder (VFB), and voids in the mineral aggregate (VMA) were evaluated. The study was conducted with CDQ percentage variation of 2%, 4% and 6% and 4.4% optimum bitumen content was obtained from the neat asphalt. The results of the study showed that the use of Calcined quarzite dust led to an increase in Marshall stability from 15kN to 21.1 kN, increased Indirect Tensile Strength Strength ratio from 82% to 88%, ITS dry from 900.2kPa to 1,130.6kPa and ITS wet from 740kPa to 990kPa. With relation to wheel tracking tests the ITS value greater than 800kPa expect less than 10mm rutting depth for a 20,000 cycles passes. This study therefore shows that asphalt mixes with 4.5% CQD in the asphalt mixture can be used as a means to enhance the stability and stiffness.
Accessing the use of crumb rubber and kaolinite to the resistance of asphalt to deformation
(Uganda Christian university, 2025-04-26) Pitia Anthony Mustafa
Flexible pavement performance is often reduced by rutting, fatigue and lack of durability especially under heavy traffic. This study aimed to improve bitumen by modifying it with Crumb rubber (CR) and kaolinite clay to enhance resistance to fatigue cracking. Waste tires were used due to their high elasticity. CR was added to 60-70 pen grade bitumen in proportions of 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%. Tests showed that 5% CR gave the best balance of thermal, fatigue and moisture resistance. To improve storage stability, kaolinite was added in amounts of 1%, 1.5%, 2% and 2.5% with 2% showing the best results.
Agrogetaway Web Application
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-15) Ddumba, Timothy; Gortland, Jim James; Tryphine, Nalule; Josephine, Namuwonge; Joan, Nabirye; Adam, Murungi
The Agrogetaway project is an innovative initiative aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape by leveraging technology to facilitate knowledge exchange between farmers and agricultural enthusiasts. This web-based platform serves as a conduit for sharing best practices, advanced farming techniques, and practical knowledge through an interactive and user-friendly interface. The project's cornerstone is the creation of a digital community where users can book farm tours, access a wealth of educational resources, and engage in real-time discussions with experienced model farm managers. Agrogetaway addresses the critical challenge of improving agricultural produce quality in Uganda, which directly impacts the nation's competitiveness in the global market and its food security. By connecting users with model farmers and providing a repository of multimedia educational content, the platform fosters a collaborative environment for learning and growth. The project also introduces a novel feature, 'Communities,' structured around model farmers, where users can subscribe for exclusive insights and direct mentorship. The platform's development followed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative research to ensure comprehensive user-centric design and functionality. Evaluations indicate user satisfaction and a gradual increase in engagement, although challenges such as a lack of scientific depth and device compatibility were identified. Recommendations for future enhancements include infrastructure improvements, user education programs, and advanced security measures. Agrogetaway's vision is to empower farmers with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance productivity and sustainability, ultimately contributing to the advancement of the agricultural sector. The project's ongoing development and research aim to expand its reach, improve user experience, and solidify its position as an indispensable resource for modern agriculture.
An Evaluation of Horizontal Sub-drainage Systemsinmitigating Landslide Hazard in Shikuruwe Village, Bududa District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-14) Mamfa Mayala Cynthia
Rainfall-induced landslides pose a significant threat in BUDUDA district in Eastern Uganda, due to intense precipitation, geological instability, and increasing population density. This study assessed the suitability of horizontal sub-drainage systems to mitigate landslide risk in SHIKURUWE village. The research involved site characterization, a hydrological study, and the design of a horizontal sub-drainage system. Key findings revealed that moderately steep slopes, low permeability, and fine-grained soils contributed to water stagnation in the soil profile. High rainfall patterns were found to be influenced by global meteorological phenomenon such as the El Niño. Further, land use and soil properties significantly influenced water losses in the watershed. Finally, the introduction of a horizontal sub-drainage system down slope was observed to improve drainage in both steady state and transient conditions, hence reducing the pore water pressure, and increasing the factor of safety of the slope.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Biotechinical Slope Stabilization Methods in Landslide Prone Areas
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Nakinkunda Prisca
This research was conducted in Kasika Village with the primary objective of assessing the effectiveness of various biotechnical slope stabilization methods in landslide- prone areas. The study was motivated by the increasing problem of slope instability in the region, which has led to loss of lives and the destruction of critical community infrastructure, including roads. The research aimed to identify sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions for stabilizing vulnerable slopes. The study was guided by three key objectives: to evaluate the susceptibility of slopes to landslides in the affected areas, to determine the factor of safety of the slope before failure, and to assess the effectiveness of biotechnical slope stabilization techniques. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to develop a landslide susceptibility map achieving an AUC of 0.85 while the Morgenstern-Price method of slices was used to calculate the factor of safety under both saturated and normal soil conditions. Findings revealed that the studied slope was highly unstable and prone to landslide with a factor of safety of 0.885 for normal conditions and 0.955 for saturated conditions. The research recommended the implementation of brush layering using bamboo live cuttings (Oldeania alpina) as a sustainable biotechnical stabilization method to enhance slope stability in the area.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Biotechinicalslopestabilization Methods in Landslide Proneareas
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Vladimir Michael
This research was conducted in Kasika village with a main aim of assessing the effectiveness of the different biotechnical slope stabilization methods in landslide prone areas. The study was triggered by the increasing challenge of slope instability in the area which led to loss of lives and destruction of community infrastructure such as roads, the study aimed at coming up with sustainable and environmentally friendly measures of stabilizing the slopes in the area. The study was conducted basing on three objectives that is to evaluate the slope susceptibility of the slopes to landslides in the landslide prone areas , to determine the factor of safety of the slope before failure and to assess the effectiveness of the biotechnical slope stabilization techniques. The study used (Analytical Hierarchy Process)AHP to come up with the landslide susceptibility map and morgenstern price method of slices to determine the factor of safety of the slope before failure under saturated and normal soil conditions. The study found out that the endangered slope was unstable and prone to landslides and recommended the use of the biotechinical slope stabilization method of brush layering with bamboo live cuttings(Oldenia Alpina) to stabilize the slope.
Assessing the Production of Algal Biodiesel as a supplement to Fossil Fuel
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-11) Nabakka Prisca Angel
The increase in dependence on fossil fuels in Uganda has been associated to the ever increasing population and is contributed to by rural-urban migration, as well as increased urbanization that causes increase in activities such as industrialization. The increasing strain on these fossil fuels, and the increase in their effects on the environment, infrastructure, as well as human beings has led to the need for renewable energy sources and the significant interest in algal bio-diesel. This study investigates the potential of three algae species, - Nannochloropsis, Chlorella Vulgaris and Botryococcus Braunii, for bio-diesel production. The algae was cultivated in similar conditions and the growth rates were monitored for each species using a manual stick measurement technique. Lipid extraction was performed using solvent extraction method to determine the lipid yield for each species with different solvent mixes and bio-diesel was synthesized through trans-esterification. The results showed that Nannochloropsis and Chlorella Vulgaris exhibited the highest growth rate while Nannochloropsis also had the highest lipid content and bio-diesel yield. Botryococcus Braunii had the lowest growth rate and lipid yield. A multi-criteria decision analysis using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was conducted to evaluate the best species based on growth performance, ease of culturing, lipid content and bio-diesel yield. The analysis identified Nannochloropsis as the most suitable option for bio-diesel production and the obtained bio-diesel was analyzed for key fuel properties, including cetane number, density, kinematic viscosity, flash point and copper strip corrosion following ASTM and EN standards. The study highlights the potential of algae as a sustainable feed-stock for bio-diesel production and emphasizes the need for further research on large scale cultivation and process optimization to enhance feasibility.
Assessing the Stabilization of Laterite Soils Using Steel Slag and Quarry Dust for Road Subbase Layer
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Ssekkalaba Elvis
Lateritic soils are often weak and unsuitable for road construction without stabilisation. This study assesses the suitability of stabilising lateritic soil using steel slag and quarry dust, focusing on the Nasuuti-Nakabago-Ntawo road, where soil from the Nsambwe borrow pit had a CBR of 24.7 %, below the required 45 % for a G45 granular subbase material. Proctor test, CBR, Atterberg limits, and particle size distribution, were performed on varying percentages of laterite, steel slag, and quarry dust. The results showed that 40 % steel slag addition increased the CBR by 160 % and reduced CBR swell by 70 %, improving load-bearing capacity. 10 % quarry dust with 40 % steel slag effectively reduced the plasticity index by 27 %, liquid limit by 13 %, and linear shrinkage by 33 %, enhancing workability and durability. These findings confirm that a combination of steel slag and quarry dust can significantly improve laterite soil properties, making it suitable for subbase applications in road construction.
Assessing the Stabilization of Marginal Laterite Soils Using Steel Slag and Quarry Dust for the Construction of a Subbase Road Layer
(Uganda Christrian University, 2025-04-10) Kyaligonza Gary Timothy
The research report focuses on the stabilization of marginal laterite soils using steel slag and quarry dust for the construction of a subbase road layer. Laterite soils, commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, are characterized by their physical nature, chemical composition, and geological characteristics. The report highlights the challenges associated with using laterite soils in road construction, particularly their variability in quality and the need for stabilization to meet strength requirements. The research aims to assess the suitability of using steel slag, a byproduct of the steelmaking process, and quarry dust, a byproduct of stone crushing, as stabilizers to improve the engineering properties of laterite soils. The methodology section details the various tests conducted to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of the soil samples, including the California Bearing Ratio (CBR), Atterberg limits, and particle size distribution. The results indicate that the addition of steel slag improves the load-bearing capacity of the soil sample by 160% at 40% of steel slag. Quarry dust reduces the liquid limit by 13%, the plastic index by 27%, and linear shrinkage by 33% at 10% of quarry dust in the blend. The report concludes that the use of these industrial byproducts not only enhances the performance of the soil but also offers environmental benefits by recycling waste materials and reducing the need for natural resources.
Assessing the Stiffness Properties of Asphalt Concrete Modified With Waste Diesel Engine Oil. Acase Study of Kampala- Masaka Road
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-24) Mugume Tyson
This research explored the modification of 50/70 penetration grade bitumen with waste diesel engine oil (WDEO) to enhance asphalt concrete properties for the Kampala-Masaka highway. The highway exhibits significant pavement deterioration, especially cracking, potentially caused by heavy traffic loads and temperature variations, which necessitates improved pavement materials. The study aimed to assess the impact of DWEO content on stiffness and workability by blending bitumen with DWEO at ratios of 0%, 2%, 3.5%, 4%, and 6%, and subjecting the mixtures to physical and mechanical tests. The 3.5% DWEO blend demonstrated the most favorable performance. Key findings from Marshall and Volumetric Analysis indicated a 22% improvement in stiffness and a 17% improvement in workability with DWEO modification compared to the control. This suggests that incorporating DWEO enhances the asphalt's resistance to cracking and deformation, addressing the observed deterioration issues. While DWEO modification shows promise for improving asphalt properties, further research is recommended to thoroughly address observed stability issues. Optimization of DWEO content is crucial to achieve a balance between improved stiffness and workability and ensure long-term pavement performance and durability on the Kampala-Masaka highway.
Assessing the Stiffness Properties of Asphalt Concrete Modified With Waste Diesel Engine Oil. Acase Study of Kampala- Masaka Road
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-29) Natangaza Peace
This study explored the possibility of modifying bitumen with Waste Engine Oil (WEO) to help mitigate cracking in asphalt pavements. Laboratory investigations were conducted on bitumen of 50/70 penetration grade with WEO additions of 0-6%. In all experiments with WEO, the penetration increased from 62.2 to 73.4 mm, and all other physical properties measured decreased; notably the softening point (from 54.2 to 45.5° C) and density of the bitumen (from 1.018 to 0.999 g/cm³). Marshall Mix Design implied that 4.6% was the optimal bitumen content, while the 3.5% WEO mixture had superior performance, workability and fatigue resistivity to the other mixtures. The results showed a very good moisture resistivity with a Tensile Strength Ratio of 92%. The findings from this study implied that for areas like Kampala- Masaka, Uganda, it is feasible to modify bitumen with up to 4% WEO to sustainably enhance pavement performance, improving the longevity of the pavement and delaying maintenance requirements. It is indicated that wide scale field studies be undertaken to monitor the impact of these laboratory studies in the field.
Assessing the Suitability of Kaolin as a Catalyst for Polyethylene Plastic Waste Pyrolysis : A Case Study Kikuubo Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Chiza Maisha Augustin
The growing accumulation of polyethylene plastic waste in urban centers like Kikuubo Market, Kampala, Uganda presents severe environmental and public health challenges, exacerbated by ineffective traditional waste management strategies. This study addresses these challenges by assessing the suitability of kaolin, a naturally abundant clay mineral sourced from Buwambo deposit in Wakiso District, as a catalyst for the pyrolysis of polyethylene plastic waste. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis confirmed the kaolin’s catalytic potential, with high levels of silicon dioxide (53.67%) and aluminium oxide (24.47%). Controlled pyrolysis experiments were conducted at 420°C and a heating rate of 10°C/min using varying kaolin-to-polyethylene mix ratios (0-20 wt%). The 16 wt% kaolin-to-plastic ratio achieved the highest oil yield of 75.67%, a notable improvement from 65.67% in non-catalytic pyrolysis. Additionally, the reaction time decreased from 91minutes (control) to 74minutes at this optimal loading, enhancing overall process efficiency. A cost-benefit analysis showed a net profit of 1,365 UGX/kg with kaolin, compared to 789 UGX/kg without, confirming the economic feasibility of the approach. Compared to synthetic zeolite and bagasse ash, kaolin offers superior performance due to its local availability and minimal processing needs. These findings highlight kaolin’s potential to enhance the pyrolysis process, offering a scalable and sustainable approach to plastic waste management and energy recovery in developing regions.
Assessing the Suitability of Kaolin as a Catalyst for Polyethylene Plastic Waste Pyrolysis: A Case Study Kikuubo-Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-09) Tagoola Prince
In the Kampala Metropolitan Area, including Mbuya, approximately 135,804 tonnes of plastic waste are generated annually, of this, 42% remains uncollected, 15% is collected through value chain approaches, and 43% is collected by service providers. Significant amounts of plastic waste are either burned (21,728 tonnes), landfilled (47,457 tonnes), or end up in water systems (13,580 tonnes) (I. Tumuhimbise, 2023). Despite multiple bans on plastics since 2009, plastic use has not decreased, with over half of the waste ending up in open land and waterways (Ugandan Environmental Authorities, 2020). Recycling rates are alarmingly low at only 1%, and few companies recycle or repurpose plastic (S. Naluyima, 2022).Traditional methods such as landfilling, open dumping, and incineration are unsustainable due to environmental degradation and public health risks. Pyrolysis, a thermochemical process that decomposes plastic waste into fuel and chemical feedstocks in the absence of oxygen, offers a promising alternative (Sharma et al., 2020). However, conventional pyrolysis faces challenges such as high energy demands, prolonged reaction times, and low-quality outputs due to incomplete hydrocarbon breakdown (Kizito, 2022). Catalytic pyrolysis addresses these limitations by using catalysts to lower reaction temperatures, improve efficiency, and enhance product yield. This study investigates the suitability of kaolin, a locally abundant and cost-effective aluminosilicate clay, as a catalyst for polyethylene (PE) plastic waste pyrolysis. Kaolin’s high silica (SiO₂) and alumina (Al₂O₃) content (53.67% and 24.47%, respectively) provides acidic sites that facilitate hydrocarbon cracking, while its thermal stability ensures durability under high temperatures (Wang et al., 2021). The research evaluates kaolin’s impact on pyrolysis efficiency, optimizing the kaolin-to-PE ratio, reaction time, and product yield. Experiments conducted using a fixed-bed reactor demonstrated that a 16% kaolin-to-PE ratio maximized liquid yield (75.67%), minimized char (4.08%) and gas (20.24%) production, and reduced reaction time by 18% compared to non-catalytic pyrolysis.
Assessing the Suitability of Sodium Silicate Activated Granite Dust in the Manufacture of Unfired Clay Bricks
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Mwesige Jotham
This document contains a comprehensive account of the research conducted in the field of structural engineering in the section of masonry. Research was conducted to assess the suitability of sodium silicate-activated granite dust in the manufacture of unfired clay bricks in the quest for solutions to failure for brick making in Budondo sub-county, Jinja district, Eastern Uganda. The study was conducted to provide a masonry unit in to proximity of the local population who incur higher expenses over buying bricks from a distant area. Unfired bricks have gained favor by the Sustainable Development Goals, conventions, and protocols, where there is a need to reduce the carbon footprint and environmental protection. Sodium silicate-activated granite dust is a geopolymer that both chemically and physically modifies clay soils to become suitable for brick making. Clay soils used have a grading modulus of 0.05, PI of 16.8%, Sg of 2.61, and lower chemical suitability for brick making of 25.85%. Granite dust used had a grading modulus of 1.368, Sg of 2.72, and chemical suitability of 94.78%. Sodium, silicate activator had a modulus of 1.29 with 56.4% silica, and 43.6% sodium, making it suitable for activating granite dust (Provis & Van Deventer, 2009) On blending local clay with activated granite dust the improvement of grading modulus of 1.905, chemical suitability was 96.11% PI was 10.6%. It was found that unfired bricks made from sodium silicate activated granite dust had a compressive strength of 4.9MPa and load bearing capacity of 138.96KN accrued to good bearing capacity for low-cost buildings and self-weight walls. The brick had a water absorption capacity of 13.75% and efflorescence value which showed nil results. The brick is therefore good for masonry wall construction. The content in this document is organized in five chapters with chapter one having the introduction part of the study, chapter two contains the literature review and chapter three contains the methodology which explains how to obtain the objectives of the study. Chapter four is detailed with results and discussions of the study, and the final chapter, which is chapter five, contains the conclusions and recommendations.
Assessing the Suitability of Sodium Silicate-Activated Granite Dust in the Manufacturing of Unfired Clay Bricks
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-14) Kakande Hannington
This final year research and design project report provides an account of the research that was carried out from October 2024 to April 2025 in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of bachelor of science in civil and environmental engineering under the course unit final year research and design project. The report entails an introduction in chapter one that gives a background to the study, provides a statement of the problem, defines the objectives of the proposal in addition to stating the justification of the research and the scope of the research. In chapter two, the report provides the literature that was reviewed in order to identify the knowledge gap in the proposed research. The report also entails the employed methodology which identified the materials and methods that were used to achieve the specific objectives of research in addition to providing and discussed the results that were obtained thereafter.
Assessing the Suitability of Using Expanded Clay Aggregates as an Additive in the Manufacturing of Papercrete Bricks
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-07) Asiimwe Crescent
The purpose of this research was to assess the suitability of using expanded clay aggregates as an additive in the manufacturing of papercrete bricks. The need for this research is driven from the structural limitations of the papercrete bricks that is associated with their low compressive strength and poor water resistance. Expanded clay aggregates which are small, porous and lightweight in nature has in previous research demonstrated the ability to enhance strength and resist water in various building materials. Therefore, this research aimed at improving the physical properties i.e. compressive strength and water resistance among others of papercrete bricks. To achieve this, expanded clay aggregates were mixed in the matrix partially replacing paper pulp in varying ratios from 0% to 25% to obtain the optimum mix design for making the claycretes. A design mix batch ratio of 2:1:1:1 with 20% paper pulp volume partial replacement with ECAs was selected as the optimum as this composite gave the best balance for the physical properties i.e. 6.4 MPa for compressive strength and 10.8% for water absorption. The efflorescence and soundness classes were all found to be workable gradually with increment in the aggregates volume according to British standards.
Assessing the Suitability of Using Expanded Clay Aggregates as an Additive in the Manufacturing of Papercrete Bricks
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Mugabi Mark
Papercrete bricks are lightweight bricks incorporated with paper pulp from paper waste, and are basically used in non-load-bearing structures like partition walls. Preliminary tests were done on the papercrete bricks and results showed a low compressive strength value of 4.48 MPa and high water absorption rate of 21.85%. This study was aimed at assessing the suitability of using Expanded Clay Aggregates (ECAs) to improve papercrete by improving its compressive strength and water resistance. The methods used to attain the objectives include the Particle Size Distribution, bulk density and water absorption tests to determine the physical engineering properties of ECAs, efflorescence, soundness, water absorption and compressive strength tests on the bricks with ECAs to determine the ECAs’ effect on the bricks’ physical properties, and the compressive strength test on the wall prototype made using claycrete composites to determine its structural load-bearing capacity. The key parameters looked at in this study include the ECAs ratios and curing periods of the composites. This research identifies that 20% of ECAs and 28 days of curing gave the best results.