Assessment of the Compressive Strength of Soil Cement Block Exposed to NPK Fertilizer

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I extend my sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to the completion of this project. Special thanks to my Supervisor (Name of your Supervisor), the Head of Department (Name of your HOD), the Lecturers in the department of Building Technology (BT), Book Authors and Profound Scholars of existing or related project material on “Assessment of the Compressive Strength of Soil Cement Block Exposed to NPK Fertilizer” for their invaluable guidance, support, and expertise throughout the journey.

I am also grateful to your study area (mention any funding organizations, if applicable) for their financial assistance. This research would not have been possible without the encouragement and assistance of some stakeholders (mention any mentors, teachers, or colleagues). Additionally, I would like to acknowledge the understanding and patience of my family and friends during this endeavor. Your unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation. Thank you all for being part of this meaningful endeavor.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRELIMINARY PAGES

Title page
Approval page
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Table of Contents
Abstract

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
1.2 Statement of the Research Problem
1.3 Justification for the Study
1.4 Aim and Objectives
1.5 Scope and Limitation

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Literature Review
2.1 History of Earth Materials and Traditional Clay Buildings
2.2 Traditional Methods of Earth Construction
2.2.1 Adobe Blocks
2.2.2 Cob
2.3 Modern Methods of Earth Construction
2.3.1 Compressed Earth Block
2.3.2 Stabilised Soil
2.4 Stabilisation Techniques
2.4.1 Mechanical Stabilisation
2.4.2 Cement Stabilisation
2.4.3 Lime Stabilisation
2.4.4 Bitumen Stabilisation
2.4.5 Gypsum Stabilisation
2.4.6 Pozzolanas Stabilisation
2.4.7 Other Stabilisers
2.5 Hydraform Blocks
2.5.1 Suitable Soil for Soil Cement Block
2.5.2 Tests for Soils
2.6 Compressive Strength of Hydraform Blocks
2.7 Moisture Movement
2.8 Chemical Analysis of SCB
2.9 Durability of Hydraform Blocks
2.10 Deterioration Mechanisms in SCB
2.10.1 Water Related Deterioration in SCBs
2.10.2 Temperature-Related Deterioration in SCBs
2.10.3 Chemical-Related Deterioration

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 Experimental Procedure
3.1 Materials
3.1.1 Properties of Soil
3.1.2 Shrinkage Test
3.1.3 Aggregate Grading (Sieve Analysis Test)
3.2 Properties of Hydraform Blocks
3.2.1 Water Absorption
3.2.2 Wet Compressive Strength Test
3.2.3 Dry Compressive Strength Test
3.3 Chemical Analysis of Cement, Laterite and NPK Fertilizer
3.4 Hydraform Experimental Procedure
3.4.1 Preparation of NPK Fertilizer Solution
3.4.2 Compressive Strength Test after Exposure to NPK Solution

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 Data Presentation, Analysis and Discussions
4.1 Data Presentation and Analysis
4.2 Properties of Soil
4.2.1 Shrinkage Test
4.2.2 Result of Aggregate Grading (Sieve Analysis Test)
4.3 Properties of Hydraform Blocks
4.3.1 Moisture Absorption Test
4.3.2 Dry Compressive Strength
4.3.3 Wet Compressive Strength
4.4 Chemical Analysis
4.4.1 Chemical Composition Analysis of Dangote Ordinary Portland Cement
4.4.2 Chemical Composition Analysis of Laterite
4.4.3 Chemical Composition Analysis of NPK
4.5 Compressive Strength Test Results

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 Summary, Conclusion and Recommendations
5.1 Summary of Findings
5.2 Conclusions
5.3 Recommendations

REFERENCES

APPENDICES

Defense Procedure for Building Technology Researchers

Be Intentional About Your Research Preparation in Context – As a student of Building Technology defending a project or seminar on Assessment of the Compressive Strength of Soil Cement Block Exposed to NPK Fertilizer, you are expected to be thoroughly acquainted with your research. The defense process follows a structured format where you present your work, respond to questions, and demonstrate its relevance. Here’s a general guide to the defense procedure:

Introduction: Begin with a concise introduction of your research topic, highlighting its significance and the research objectives. This helps set the context for the audience and the External Examiner, allowing them to grasp the scope of your work. Before you step up to defend, ensure that you are familiar with your research abstract and the key components of Chapter One, including the motivation behind your study, the problem statement, the aims and objectives, as well as the scope and significance. For Chapter Two, it is advisable to reference at least two citations from the literature review. In Chapter Three, be prepared to discuss the methodologies, tools, and techniques you employed in your research. Moving to Chapter Four, you must justify your work and explain how your findings align with the objectives of your research.

Conclusion and Recommendations: Wrap up your defense by summarizing the study and offering well-grounded recommendations based on your findings.

Dress Code: Professional attire is an essential component of your final-year research defense. Wearing a suit and tie, for example, can create a positive impression and boost your overall presentation without you having to say a word.

Question and Answer Session: The External Examiner will ask questions based on your research. If you encounter a difficult or unrelated question, respond respectfully with, "Sorry, Sir/Madam, the question asked is beyond the scope of my study". Whenever possible, answer questions by referring directly to your research findings.

Assessment of the Compressive Strength of Soil Cement Block Exposed to NPK Fertilizer

DEDICATION

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT