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- These are Undergraduate Student Reports for UCU Science Students
Recent Submissions
Assessing the Use of Cement Kiln Dust to Stabilize Sandy Soils for Subgrade Construction
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-26) Bagonza Henry
Sandy soils are characterized by their high porosity and loose particle size making them highly susceptible to erosion posing significant challenges in various construction applications. This research explores the viability of utilizing cement kiln dust which is an industrial by-product from cement manufacturing as a sustainable alternative for stabilizing sandy soils. CKD is rich in Calcium Oxide and Silica, thereby offering potential pozzolanic properties that could enhance soil cohesion and mechanical performance while addressing waste management challenges associated with its disposal. This study evaluates the geotechnical properties of CKD-stabilized sand soils through a series of laboratory experiments including Proctor test, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS), California Bearing Ratio test and permeability tests. Different percentages of cement kiln dust ranging from 5% to 20% by weight were mixed with the sandy soil samples to determine the optimal percentage for maximizing strength and durability. The optimum percentage of cement kiln dust to be added was observed to be 15% since the results obtained demonstrated a 45% improvement in UCS and a 58.5%
improvement CBR values after a 7-day curing period. Additionally, the permeability greatly decreased by 93% indicating enhanced soil stability and reduced erosion potential. The shrinkage characteristics of the soil that is PI, CBR swell and linear shrinkage were all found to be within the acceptable limits according to the MoWT general specifications for Road and Bridge Works 2005.
Assessing the Use of Marble Dust as a Filler in Asphalt Concrete for Durable Flexible Pavements
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Ahabwe Arthur
Flexible pavements are the most commonly used road pavement used in Uganda and the surfacing layer is made of asphalt concrete which is a mix of aggregates, bitumen and mineral filler. The primary goal of this study was to investigate the use of marble dust as a mineral filler to improve the durability of asphalt concrete. The engineering properties of bitumen, aggregates and mineral filler were determined and tests such as the Marshall test and the indirect tensile strength test were carried out. For each mix, Marshall stability, flow, air voids, voids in mineral aggregate as well voids filled with asphalt were all determined. Air voids reduced from 4.7% to 3.8%, Marshall stability increased from 13.2 KN to 17.1 KN and indirect tensile strength increased from 899 kpa to 1,104 kpa. it was also observed that 5% of marble dust in the asphalt mix was the optimum mineral filler percentage or content to be used in the mix. Findings found that 5% of marble dust improved increased stability and stiffness of the asphalt mixtures hence making improving its resistance to rutting. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that 5% of marble dust can be used as a filler to reduce air voids, increase Marshall stability and improve the strength properties and stiffness of asphalt making it stronger and more resistant to permanent properties.
Assessing the Use of Unplasticized Borehole Components to Prevent Corrosion of Borehole Components in Nyakwae Sub-county, Abim District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-22) Mbabazi Moses
Across Sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 500 million people rely on groundwater, with about 200 million depending on boreholes for their water supply (Danert, 2022). In Uganda, around 67% of the rural population relies on boreholes, with over 63,000 installations across the country (Ministry of Water and Environment, 2023).However, corrosion in borehole components presents a significant challenge, particularly when using metal components like steel and iron, which are prone to corrosion when exposed to groundwater. Traditionally, boreholes have depended on metallic pipes for structural integrity, but corrosion has resulted in the degradation of water quality, frequent component failures, and increased maintenance costs (Smith, 2015). These challenges are exacerbated in groundwater environments characterized by low pH, high levels of dissolved oxygen, salts, and acidic conditions (Jones & Smith, 2018).In Nyakwae sub-county, Abim District (Uganda-Karamoja region), groundwater contamination with low-pH water of high salinity and chloride has exacerbated corrosion issues. This has resulted to breaking down of borehole parts frequently,that are normally the only sources for drinking water to the local communities (Mugisha &Okurut, 2019).In response to this continued challenge, the government of Uganda banned use of galvanized iron (GI) pipes in 2016 as borehole hand pump riser components and promoted alternative materials that can withstand ground water conditions within the high-hardness range (The Republic Of Uganda Ministry Of Water And Environment, 2016). Whilst stainless steel and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are recommended for bore holes, there have been many instances of failures in pipe materials or poor performance from the system, which warrants additional research to identify even more long-lasting materials.Testing and evaluation was conducted so that material with unplasticized could be utilized in borehole system components to mitigate the effects of corrosive damage.
Assessing the Viability of a Hybrid Solar Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine System as a Renewable Energy Source for Rural Communities
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-26) Tumwesigye Balyesiima Emma
This research investigates the technical and economic feasibility of a hybrid renewable energy system merging a 200W solar PV array with a Savonius vertical-axis wind turbine to address energy poverty in rural Kyenjojo, found in Uganda. Against a background of electrification limitation (12 to 18% in rural areas) as well as a dependence on polluting, cost-inefficient diesel generators as well as a limited grid connection in some areas, the study evaluates the potential for complementarity of solar and wind resources in Uganda’s Western Rift Valley. Through resource assessment, wind tunnel testing of a VAWT prototype, computational modeling using Python and cost analysis, the hybrid system exhibits robust performance in energy output annually. It also demonstrates reliability and a cheaper Levelized Cost of Energy than diesel alternatives. Key discoveries include the power coefficient of the VAWT at 4m/s wind speeds, strong
diurnal and seasonal complementary behavior between solar and wind generation, and a payback period of 4 years. The modular design of the system, its benefits environmentally and its alignment with the renewable energy policies of Uganda show its viability for decentralized electrification. This study gives actionable insights for stakeholder and policymakers, which promotes hybrid systems as a transformative solution to energy poverty in sub-Saharan Africa.
Assessing the Use of Waste Motor Oil in Sandcrete Blocks
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-28) Bakera Purikeria
In Kawempe Division, the sandcrete blocks made by local manufacturers have a high-water absorption capacity which makes them more susceptible to dampness. This research therefore explored the incorporation of waste motor oil in the Sandcrete blocks to prevent dampness. The sample waste motor oil or used engine oil was collected and preparation of the representative waste motor oil from Shell Auto workshop wandegeya and was taken to the molecule technology Africa limited for analysis of the presence of contaminants in the waste engine oil such as lead, zinc and iron due to elemental concentration, pH value was done using a pH meter, the density was determined using the hydrometer, total acid number and kinetic viscosity. The water absorption capacity, compressive strength and capillary of the sandcrete blocks with waste motor oil proved to be lower than the water absorption capacity, compressive strength and capillary of the sandcrete blocks without waste motor oil with the optimal dosage being 0.5%. This is because 0.5% of waste motor oil concentration is optimal for reducing waste motor oil while maintaining strength as it reduced the water absorption capacity by 20% from 18.7% to 15.05% and has a lower capillary rise thereby addressing the problem of dampness in Sandcrete blocks.
Investigating the Use of Chert Powder as a Partial Replacement of Cement in Concrete
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-19) Mukama Mathias
This study investigated the use of chert powder as a partial replacement for cement in concrete, particularly to improve concrete resistance against sulphate attack. Chemical composition using X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) showed a combined composition of 97.65% for SiO₂, Al₂O₃, and Fe₂O₃, exceeding the ASTM C618 required minimum of 70%, confirming chert powder's pozzolanic properties. With a specific gravity of 2.805 and fineness of 4.51%, chert powder had physical properties comparable to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). Tests on consistency, setting time, and strength activity index further justified its suitability as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). Class 40 concrete mix designs incorporating 0% to 20% chert powder were prepared and tested. The 10% partial replacement rate showed optimal results, with increase in workability of about 7.50%, Compressive strength increase of about 4.14% (That is from 48.2MPa to 50.3Mpa). Water absorption was reduced by 22.73% indicating improved durability. Additionally, concrete exposed to a 50 g/L sodium sulphate solution showed reduced expansion of about 0.201% and minimal strength loss of about 7.48%, thus reflecting a 75.15% improvement in sulphate resistance of concrete at 10% replacement.
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 Use of Polyester Fiber Along With Foundry Sand As Reinforcement in the Making of Concrete Pavers
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Ahimbisibwe Melvin
The inclusion of fiber reinforcement and foundry sand within concrete pavers has significantly shown improvement is the performance of the modified concrete pavers. This research therefore explores the impact of incorporation of polyester fiber into concrete with an aim of identifying the optimal fiber to concrete ratio that maximizes strength and durability. The study involved a series of laboratory experiments where the concrete pavers were cast with varying proportions of fiber content while optimizing with 0.10% to 0.20% of fiber with a diameter of 0.02mm and 12mm length. The major performance indicators assessed in this study were load-bearing capacity, crack resistance, and water absorption rates. Comparative analysis was conducted against conventional concrete pavers to evaluate improvements in structural integrity and service life. The results indicate that the optimum polyester fiber ratio for reinforced concrete pavers is 0.5% by weight of cement. At this ratio, the pavers exhibited a 20% increase in compressive strength and a 15% improvement in flexural strength compared to non-reinforced pavers. Additionally, there was a reduction in surface cracking and water permeability thus evidence of achieving durability. Therefore, the scientific findings of this study prove valuable insights into the practical application of fiber reinforced concrete as a paving solution. For more durable and resilient pavement structures especially concrete pavers, it is more ideal to use fiber reinforcement at the obtained optimum ratio (0.16%).
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Tithonia Extract as Supplement to NPK17։17։17 on Growth and Yield of Spinah (Spinacia oleracea) in Hydroponics Systems
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-09) Daniel Mulengetsi Mishona
This research evaluated Tithonian diversifolia extract effectiveness as additive fertilizer on spinach Spinacia oleracea) growth and yield in hydroponic culture.A completely randomized design (CRD), Used six treatments, control (NPK19) and five treatments of NPK17։17։17 with different concentrations of Tithonian extract 50-250ml per 14l Results showed that 250 ml Tithonian extract T6 significantly outranks aligns with research, with 260 % more fresh weight (274.67g) compared to the control. This excellent performance is compared to reading Jama et al. (2000), whose Tithonian biomass contents are presented as high in nutrients (3.5% N, 0.37% P, 4.1% K). At week three, T6 had larger leaf area (107.83cm²), higher growth (20.71cm) and longer and more leaves (6.87) compared to the control treatments. As Partey et al. (2018) predicted, bioactive substance in Tithonian was likely the cause of heightened growth. The results confirm that Tithonian foliar extract at 250 ml /14l can be utilized for complementing NPK17 fertilizer, provide an eco-friendly option that can help minimize excessive dependence on expensive synthetic fertilizers while confirming Kafle et al.'s (2019) through his finding that combination can perform better than synthetic fertilizer alone. Recommendations for use OF the findings determine that Tithonian foliar extract at 250 ml /14l supplemented NPK17 fertilizer respectively were determined.
Keywords: Hydroponics, Tithonian diversifolia,NPK17։17։17, Spinacia oleracea).
Assessing the Use of Artocarpus heterophyllus Seed Powder at Household Level to Treat Spring Water
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Nansamba Yiga Christine
The purpose of this research was to assess the potential use of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) seed powder as a household-based natural improvement in the quality of spring water in Nakonge communities of Uganda. The investigation was prompted by the continuing consumptions of contaminated and untreated water in the communities which have led to rising rates of waterborne illness. Clean drinking water continues to be a challenge in rural, under-resourced communities, leading to calls for the need to introduce solutions which are affordable, accessible, and sustainable. The study evaluates jackfruit seed powder for its purification (antimicrobial and cleaning) capabilities in terms of efficacy to reduce contaminants and improve water quality. The specific research results show that jackfruit seed powder significantly reduced microbial loads and impurities in spring water. The study also confirmed the ability of jackfruit seed powder to effectively remove contaminants depended on the size of the seed powder and the extraction methodology; finer powder appeared to remove unwanted contaminants at a greater efficacy, in part because of greater surface area are extracted, and lengthening the extraction time (especially the extraction in non-filtered water) encouraged further extraction and release of purification compounds. The proposed framework was intended to be easy to implement and inexpensive, so that local families can adopt the approach using household tools and materials. A treatment system could be created in which spring water was filtered through jackfruit seed powder prior to consumption. Despite some positive outcomes, the study recognizes a few challenges and limitations, such as standardizing and evaluating powder preparation and dosage, and ensuring safety of the treated water
Assessing the Use of Artocarpus heterophyllus Seed Powder at Household Level to Treat Spring Water
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-02) Akankwasa Rwabuto Richard
Access to clean water remains a major challenge for the rural Ugandan communities
like Nakonge, where springs are the main water source. This study explores the use of
jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) seed powder and its lectin component as a
natural coagulant to treat contaminated spring water at the house hold level. Water
from Nakonge spring, Nsanja spring, and Bwanga community well showed high levels
of E. coli and coliforms. Exceeding WHO standards.
Physicochemical and microbiological tests during wet and dry seasons revealed serious
contamination, especially in Bwanga. Jackfruit seeds were processed into fine
powder, and jar tests were used to determine optimal dosage and performance
compared to alum. Results showed that jackfruit seed powder effectively reduced
turbidity and microbial counts, particularly with finer particles and proper
concentrations.
Lectins in the seeds also contribute antimicrobial action by disrupting microbial cells
and inhibiting bacterial communication. Though not perfect, the method improved
water quality significantly. This study highlights a sustainable, low-cost solution for
rural households and recommends further research into improving extraction methods
for even better results.
Improving the Hydraulic Conveyance of a Road Drainage: A Case Study of Naluuma Road, Nansana-Nabweru
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Obbo Austin
This research project focused on improving the hydraulic conveyance of Naluuma road drainage channel in Nansana-Nabweru, Uganda. The study involved determining the existing conditions of the road drainage channel, determining the peak discharge of the catchment, sufficiently sizing the drainage channel through hydraulic calculations and providing suitable cost estimates with a bill of quantities (BOQ) To achieve these objectives, site visits and topographic surveys were conducted, channel measurements were taken and the catchment area was demarcated using ArcGIS, QGIS and a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Rainfall data was acquired from Uganda National Meteorological Association (UNMA) to generate intensity duration frequency (IDF) curves, utilizing the theoretical extreme value (EV) distribution, which were used to determine the design storm and estimate rainfall events hence arriving at rainfall intensities. Using the rational method, the peak discharges were calculated. A bill of quantities was also generated in reference to prices and benefits of the various materials or equipment used. A total channel length of 803m was divided into three sections based on terrain slope and flow characteristics. Parameters such as runoff coefficients, rainfall intensities and catchment areas were determined to finally come up with peak discharges for the respective sections the uphill section(330m), midhill(300m) and downhill(180m). Results obtained from the third objective such as top and bottom widths, flow depth, and discharges from objective two were input into HECRAS software to run a supercritical hydraulic simulation of the modified channel. The results highlighted sections of the channel that were prone to overflow under extreme discharge scenarios. Based on these findings, recommendations were made on channel dimensions and possible lining materials to enhance flow capacity and reduce erosion risk hence mitigating the flooding problem of Naluuma.
Examining the Impact of Sisal Fibers on Mechanical Properties of Foam Concrete
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-21) Mema Biffumbu Pamella
Foam concrete is a lightweight construction material valued for its workability,
thermal insulation and low density. However, its low compressive strength limits its structural applications. This study investigates the impact of sisal fiber reinforcement in mechanical properties of foam concrete, with a focus on optimizing fiber length to enhance strength (compressive, flexural and tensile). The mechanical and chemical properties of sisal fibers were analyzed before and after treatment to improve fiber matrix bonding. Experimental results demonstrated that 10mm sisal fibers reinforced foam concrete achieved the highest compressive strength of 20.4 MPa compared to 15.1MPa for the control concrete indicating a 35% improvement. Similarly, flexural strength increased significantly with 10 mm fiber-reinforced samples achieving 5.0MPa at 28 days compared to 2.88 MPa for the control.
Additionally, durability tests showed improved resistance to water absorption and freeze-thaw cycles confirming the potential of sisal fiber to enhance foam concrete’s long-term performance. These findings suggest that incorporating sisal fibers, particularly at an optimal of 10mm, can improve the structural viability of foam concrete making it more suitable for cost effective and sustainable construction applications. However, there is need to refine fiber dispersion techniques and evaluate long term performance under varying environmental conditions.
Assessing the Use of Wood Chips Activated Carbon in the Treatment of the Wastewater Effluent
(Uganda Christrian University, 2025-04-16) Kharono Mary Norine
Waste water effluent from sewage treatment process contains organic matter
and other inorganic compounds which are harmful to the environment if not
treated properly. In particular high levels of BOD5 and COD in the waste water effluent pose significant risk on aquatic life through the depletion of dissolved oxygen, therefore treating the effluent to the acceptable permissible limits is essential for the health of the ecosystems. The study involved assessing the use of wood chips activated carbon in the treatment of the waste water effluent from the Doko waste stabilization pond and the research involved characterization of the waste water effluent in both the wet and dry seasons and the mean values of BOD5 and COD in the effluent for the dry season were found to be 172.3mg/l and 269.7mg/l and 129.1mg/l and 217.8mg/l for the wet season and these were higher than the recommended NEMA standards of 50mg/l for BOD5 and 100mg/l for COD, the study also evaluated the effectiveness of activated carbon in waste water effluent treatment where its adsorption behavior was described by the Langmuir and Freundlich models and the Freundlich model was the best fit for the adsorption of BOD5 and COD by activated carbon. The adsorption process demonstrated maximum percentage reductions of 75.6% for BOD5 and 72.4% for COD in the dry season and 80.3% for COD, 82% for BOD5 for the wet season bringing the BOD5 and COD values to the NEMA acceptable discharge standards demonstrating the potential of wood chips activated carbon in waste water effluent treatment.
Assessing the Use of Wood Chips-Activated Carbon in the Treatment of Wastewater Effluent
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-16) Ruhigira Ngabo Johnson
This study evaluates the effectiveness of woodchip-derived activated carbon
in the treatment of wastewater effluent, with particular focus on the removal
of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD).
Wastewater samples, collected from Doko Waste stabilization in Mbale,
exhibited elevated concentrations of BOD and COD THAT EXCEEDED National
Environment Management Authority Carbon was produced from locally
available wood chips using a combination of pyrolysis and chemical activation
with phosphoric acid to enhance its porosity and surface area. Fixed-bed
column experiments were then conducted to assess the influence of bed
height on adsorption performance, with columns varying in length from 100
mm to 220 mm.
Results indicated that a column bed height of 180mm provided optimal
conditions, achieving removal efficiencies of approximately 74.5% for BOD and
72.2% for COD. These reductions significantly lowered the contaminant loads,
bringing the treated effluent closer to acceptable discharge limits. The
findings demonstrated that woodchips-derived activated carbon is a
promising, lower-cost alternative for polishing wastewater effluent,
potentially contributing to a more sustainable treatment process that protects
both the aquatic ecosystem and public health
Vermifiltration of Slaughterhouse Wastewater: A Case Study for Kampala City Abattoir
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-15) Matagala Isaac
This research focuses on treating the wastewater that is generated from the Kampala city abattoir using the vermifiltration system. It is highly recommended within the Wastewater Management Guide for abattoirs that “small and affordable effluent treatment plants can be assembled using locally available equipment” (Kampala Pollution Task Control Task Force, 2016). The vermifiltration system has been used to treat several other kinds of wastewater, however, through this study, its potential for the treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater was investigated. This would require determining the characteristics of the wastewater, the optimal operational parameters particularly Hydraulic Loading Rate (HLR) and the Hydraulic Retention Time(HRT), which are key parameters for the functionality of a vermifilter. Using a laboratory scale prototype, it was identified that the requisite retention time for a vermifilter to treat slaughterhouse wastewater was 6 hours. With this, it would attain over 85% removal rates of BOD, COD and TSS, which rendered the wastewater safe for discharge into the environment. Though, system and design adjustments are necessary to ably treat large volumes of slaughterhouse wastewater, the vermifiltration system is a viable technological option for the treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater generated from abattoirs.
Horizontal sub drainage system in landslide risk mitigation. A case study of Shikuruwe Village, Bududa District.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-14) Ahabwe Martha
Bududa District in the eastern part of Uganda faces serious risks from
landslides to infrastructure and human populations. This study looked into
how horizontal drainage systems can be applied to reduce the risk of
landslides in Shikuruwe Village, Naposhi parish. The objectives of this study
include; determining the characteristics of the site, conducting a hydrological
survey of the area and designing a horizontal sub drainage system.
The soil properties that were determined include the soil density, cohesion,
angle of friction, shear stress and effective stress, liquid limit, soil structure.
The methodology was applied according to British Standards, and the tests
done included the atterberg limit tests, particle size distribution test,
specific gravity and the falling head permeability test, triaxial test under
unconsolidated undrained conditions and the direct shear box test under
consolidated drained conditions. Spatial analysis, hydrological data,
geological mapping, and field observations will also be used. Monitoring
groundwater levels, conducting field surveys, and sampling soil were used to
gather geological and hydrological data. Hydrological modeling and
Geographical Information System were also used to develop a horizontal sub
drainage system.
The design of the horizontal system involved the use of software like
GEOSTUDIO for slope analysis and slip surfaces, MODEFLOW for designing
optimal drain configuration.. The design included considerations like drain
spacing, drain length and drain configurations. The aim of the study was
design optimal drainage configuration to reduce the risk of landslides
happening.
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 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.