Faculty of Engineering Q1

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://rda.sliit.lk/handle/123456789/5285

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Subject: search.filters.subject.Compressive strength

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    PublicationOpen Access
    Geochemical insights into ancient burnt clay bricks in Sri Lankan archaeological structures
    (Elsevier B.V., 2026-07) Premarathne K.D.H.J.; Young, Sansfica M.; Mendis T.; Rajapaksha M; Jayasekara J.M.I.R.K.; Halwatura R.U; Kamei A.
    Ancient burnt clay bricks in Sri Lanka exhibit comparatively advanced technological characteristics relative to many contemporary clay bricks (1–5 MPa), suggesting the presence of optimized material design principles. This study investigates the geochemical signatures and structure–property relationships of ancient clay bricks with relatively high compressive strengths to derive insights relevant to the development of sustainable modern construction materials. Ancient burnt clay bricks were collected from ten stupas located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Standard methods were used to test the compressive strength of the brick samples. Advanced materials characterization techniques, including X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to analyze the geochemical signatures. The data were analyzed to explore provenance trends, relative weathering alteration, chemical composition, mineralogical phases, and possible firing temperature ranges of the ancient burnt clay bricks. The provenance analysis is broadly consistent with relatively felsic source materials of dacitic to rhyolitic affinity. A significant correlation was identified between flux content (19.56%) and compressive strength (9.78 MPa), suggesting that vitrification and densification may have contributed to improved mechanical performance. Further, the bricks are consistent with production from non-calcareous, low-refractory clays (CaO < 6%), with flux levels exceeding 9%, which may have supported effective sintering during firing. The higher-strength burnt clay bricks likely experienced comparatively higher firing temperatures, as indicated by the possible presence of high-temperature mineral phases such as mullite and diopside. SEM-EDX results suggest that the morphology and elemental distribution patterns of the clay bricks may have contributed to higher compressive strength. Overall, the findings suggest that ancient brick production involved favorable material characteristics and firing conditions, providing a useful basis for the development of next-generation sustainable clay-based construction materials.
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    PublicationEmbargo
    Mechanical and durability analysis of eco-friendly light weight cement blocks using raw rice husk as a partial replacement for manufactured sand
    (Elsevier Ltd, 2025-03-08) Thavarajah, L; Sundaralingam, K; Tharmarajah, G
    The study investigates the mechanical and durability properties of cement blocks made by partially replacing manufactured sand (M-sand) with raw rice husk (RRH). The rising demand for sand in construction, coupled with the environmental impact of its extraction, has prompted the exploration of alternative materials. RRH, a byproduct of rice milling, offers an eco-friendly substitute for sand. The research examines blocks containing varying proportions of RRH (20 %, 40 %, and 60 %) and compares treated and untreated husks. Key parameters, including compressive strength, tensile strength, density, performance when exposed to heat, and water absorption, were analyzed. The results show that up to 40 % of RRH can be used to replace sand without compromising the blocks' structural integrity. Treated RRH blocks demonstrated better bonding with cement, leading to higher compressive and tensile strengths compared to untreated ones. A 40 % RRH replacement achieved an average compressive strength of 3.57 MPa, surpassing the minimum requirements for non-load-bearing masonry units as per Sri Lankan and Australian standards. However, increasing RRH content to 60 % significantly reduced strength and durability. Additionally, RRH blocks exhibited a decrease in density, offering advantages in terms of transportation and handling. Water absorption increased with higher RRH content due to its porous nature yet remained within acceptable limits for treated blocks. These findings suggest that RRH can be a sustainable alternative to sand in masonry applications, especially in rural and eco-conscious construction.