PROJECT PROPOSAL ON A COMRETIVENSIVE STUDY OF THE

ENGINEERING PROPERTIES OF SANDCRETE BLOCK PRODUCED IN

ILORIN WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

By

IDREES ABEEBLLAH OPEYEMI HND/23/CEC/FT/022

OLATEJU SOLIU OLAYINKA HND/23/CEC/FT/0099

SUBMITTED TO: ENGR. M. GARUBA

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING,

INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY,
KWARA STATE POLYTECHNIC, ILORIN.

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE

AWARD OF HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA (HND) IN CIVIL
ENGINEERING.

NOVEMBER 2024.

1.0 Introduction
 Sandcrete blocks, often referred to as concrete blocks, are a widely used construction

material in the building industry, particularly for low-cost housing, commercial structures, and

infrastructure projects. Sandcrete is typically made from a mixture of sand, cement, and water,

with or without additional additives. In Ilorin West Local Government, the growing demand for

affordable housing and infrastructural development has resulted in the widespread use of

sandcrete blocks. However, concerns regarding the engineering properties of these locally

produced blocks, such as compressive strength, density, water absorption, and durability, have

raised questions about their suitability for modern construction.

This study aims to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the engineering properties of

sandcrete blocks produced in Ilorin West Local Government. By evaluating the quality of locally

manufactured blocks, the study will provide valuable insights into their reliability for

construction purposes and offer recommendations for improving production methods.

2.0 Statement of the Problem

In recent years, there has been growing concern regarding the quality and durability of

sandcrete blocks produced for construction in Ilorin West Local Government. A significant

proportion of these blocks are produced by small-scale, informal manufacturers who may not

adhere to standardized production processes. As a result, the engineering properties of the blocks

may vary significantly, leading to potential issues such as low compressive strength, high water

absorption, poor thermal insulation, and reduced durability over time.

This study seeks to address these concerns by providing a detailed analysis of the

physical and mechanical properties of sandcrete blocks in the region, offering a comprehensive

understanding of the factors influencing their performance, and suggesting possible

improvements in production techniques.

3.0 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this project is to conduct a comprehensive study of the engineering

properties of sandcrete blocks produced in Ilorin West Local Government Area, Kwara

State, with a focus on evaluating their compressive strength, water absorption, density,

durability, and overall quality. The study aims to assess the impact of various production

practices, material types (such as sand and cement quality), and mix ratios on the performance of

the blocks. Ultimately, the project seeks to provide recommendations for improving the quality

of locally produced sandcrete blocks to ensure they meet the required standards for sustainable

and safe construction practices in the region.

The main objectives of this study are:

1. To evaluate the compressive strength of sandcrete blocks produced in Ilorin West

Local Government.

2. To assess the density and porosity of the blocks, which are critical factors affecting

their strength and insulation properties.

3. To examine water absorption characteristics of sandcrete blocks to assess their

durability and susceptibility to water damage.

4. To determine the effect of various sand and cement ratios on the overall properties of

the blocks.

5. To identify any local factors such as variation in sand quality, climate conditions, and

production practices that may influence the properties of sandcrete blocks.

6. To recommend guidelines and best practices for improving the quality of sandcrete

blocks in Ilorin West Local Government.

4.0 Justification of the Study

 The need for a study on the engineering properties of sandcrete blocks produced in Ilorin

West Local Government arises from several practical, technical, and economic considerations.

Sandcrete blocks are essential construction materials for various projects, especially in the

context of affordable housing and infrastructure development in Nigeria. However, there are

growing concerns about the quality and consistency of these blocks, especially those produced

by small-scale, informal manufacturers who may not adhere to standardized production

processes.

5.0 Scope of the Study

The study will focus on:

1. Location: Sandcrete blocks produced within Ilorin West Local Government, Kwara

State.

2. Materials: Sand, cement, and other additives used by local block producers.

3. Testing Parameters: Compressive strength, density, water absorption, porosity, and the

impact of various mix ratios.

4. Timeframe: The study will span a period of 6 months, with fieldwork, laboratory tests,

and data analysis conducted in phases.

6.0 Literature Review on Engineering Properties of Sandcrete Blocks

 The following table summarizes relevant literature on the engineering properties of

sandcrete blocks, particularly focusing on studies that explore the compressive strength,

durability, water absorption, and other characteristics of locally produced sandcrete blocks.

Author(s) and Title Focus of Study Key Findings/Conclusions

Year
Akinmoladun, The Influence of Compressive Found that increasing the cement
O. T., & Sand and Cement strength of content improves the
Akinmoladun, I. Ratios on the sandcrete blocks compressive strength of blocks,
O. (2021) Compressive with varying but excess cement may increase
Strength of sand-cement porosity.
Sandcrete Blocks ratios
Adebayo, J. O., Compressive Impact of sand Blocks made from well-graded
& Olutoge, F. A. Strength and quality and sand and higher cement content
(2019) Durability of cement content had significantly higher strength
Sandcrete Blocks on strength and and better durability.
with Varying Sand durability
Quality and Cement
Content in Nigeria
Jiboye, A. D., & Analysis of the Compressive Identified poor quality control as
Akinsola, F. E. Engineering strength, water a major issue for local block
(2020) Properties of absorption, and producers. Recommended
Sandcrete Blocks in durability improving raw material selection
Southwestern and curing methods.
Nigeria
Alhassan, M. S., Investigating the Quality control Found that poor quality control
& Omoniyi, T. Quality Control of in local sandcrete and inconsistent material
A. (2018) Sandcrete Block block production sourcing result in blocks with
Production in low strength and high water
Nigeria absorption.
Ogunyemi, O. Evaluation of Compressive Locally sourced sand and cement
O., & Abiola, A. Compressive strength of resulted in lower compressive
A. (2020) Strength of blocks from strength compared to commercial
Sandcrete Blocks locally sourced alternatives. The mix ratio and
Made from Locally sand and cement curing time were identified as
Sourced Materials key factors.
Anosike, U. B., Assessment of the Durability of Found that exposure to varying
& Ojo, O. A. Durability of sandcrete blocks temperature and humidity
(2017) Sandcrete Blocks exposed to increased water absorption,
under Variable weather leading to premature block
Weather Conditions conditions degradation.
in Nigeria

7.0 Description of the Study Area: Ilorin West Local Government, Kwara State
 Ilorin West Local Government is one of the 16 local government areas (LGAs) in Kwara

State, Nigeria. It is located in the central part of the state and is home to Ilorin, the state capital,

which is a significant urban and commercial center. The local government area plays a crucial

role in the socio-economic development of Kwara State due to its proximity to the state capital,

its growing population, and its strategic position as a hub for trade, education, and infrastructure

development.

Geographical Location

 Coordinates: Ilorin West is situated between latitudes 8.5°N and 9.0°N and longitudes
4.5°E and 5.0°E.
Proposed Methodology for the Study of Engineering Properties of Sandcrete Blocks
Produced in Ilorin West Local Government Area.

Study Area

The study will focus on sandcrete blocks produced in Ilorin West Local Government

Area. The area was chosen due to its significant role in local construction activities and the

prevalence of sandcrete block production.

Sampling and Data Collection

A total of 20 sandcrete block production sites will be selected randomly within Ilorin

West. From each site, samples of blocks will be collected, ensuring that the samples represent

different types of mixes (1:6, 1:8, 1:10) and varying raw materials.

Laboratory Testing

The collected samples will be subjected to various laboratory tests to determine their

engineering properties. The following tests will be conducted:

1. Compressive Strength Test: Using a hydraulic compression testing machine, the

compressive strength of the blocks will be determined according to the standard

procedure outlined in BS 6073: Part 2.

2. Water Absorption Test: The water absorption capacity of the blocks will be determined

by immersing the blocks in water for 24 hours and measuring the increase in weight.

3. Durability Test: The blocks will be exposed to varying environmental conditions

(moisture, temperature, and chemical exposure) for a specified period, after which their

weight loss, strength retention, and appearance will be assessed.

Data Analysis

The data obtained from the tests will be analyzed statistically. Descriptive statistics such

as means, standard deviations, and percentages will be used to summarize the findings.

Comparative analysis will be conducted to assess the performance of blocks produced with

different mix ratios and additives.

9.0 Project Timeline (Gantt Chart)

Activity Month 1 Month 2 Month 3 Month 4 Mont

h5
1. █████████
Literature ███
Review &
Proposal
Writing
2. Data █████████
Collection ███
(Sampling)
3. █████████ ████████
Laboratory ███ ██
Testing
(Compressi
ve
Strength,
Durability,
Water
Absorption
)
4. Data ████████
Analysis & ██
Interpretati
on
5. Report █████████
Writing & ███
Final
Submission
Description of Phases:

1. Literature Review & Proposal Writing (Month 1):

o Conduct a thorough literature review on the engineering properties of sandcrete

blocks.

o Prepare and finalize the proposal document for submission and defense.

2. Data Collection (Sampling) (Month 2):

o Identify and select sandcrete block production sites in Ilorin West Local

Government Area.

o Collect samples from the selected block producers.

3. Laboratory Testing (Month 2 to Month 3):

o Conduct various tests, such as compressive strength, water absorption, and

durability tests, on the collected block samples.

o Perform the required procedures and document results.

4. Data Analysis & Interpretation (Month 3):

o Analyze the collected data statistically.

o Interpret the results, compare them with national standards, and identify key

findings.

5. Report Writing & Final Submission (Month 4):

o Compile the research findings, analysis, and conclusions into a final report.

o Revise and finalize the report for submission.

10.0 Anticipated Results:

1. Compressive Strength: Blocks produced with standard mix ratios (1:6, 1:8) should meet

or exceed national strength standards, while blocks made with lower cement content (e.g.,

1:10) may fall short.

2. Durability: Blocks with higher cement content are anticipated to have better durability,

indicated by lower water absorption rates and resistance to environmental degradation.

3. Workability: Blocks with higher cement content will have lower workability, potentially

requiring additional water or additives to achieve an ideal mix.

4. Comparison to Standards: Locally produced sandcrete blocks in Ilorin West are

expected to meet national standards for compressive strength but may show variations

based on production practices.

5. Raw Material Impact: The quality of raw materials (sand and cement) will significantly

influence block quality, with blocks made from higher-quality materials showing better

performance.
 REFERENCE

Akinmoladun, O. T., & Akinmoladun, I. O. (2021). “The Influence of Sand and Cement
Ratios on the Compressive Strength of Sandcrete Blocks.”
Journal of Construction and Building Materials, 32(2), 123-131.

Adebayo, J. O., & Olutoge, F. A. (2019). “Compressive Strength and Durability of Sandcrete
Blocks with Varying Sand Quality and Cement Content in Nigeria.”
Journal of Civil Engineering Research, 14(4), 124-130.

Adesanya, D.A., et al. (2019), "The Effect of Mix Ratios on the Engineering Properties of
Sandcrete Blocks in Nigeria."

Akanbi, A.M., et al. (2021), "Durability and Mechanical Properties of Sandcrete Blocks in
Nigerian Climate."

Jiboye, A. D., & Akinsola, F. E. (2020). “Analysis of the Engineering Properties of Sandcrete
Blocks in Southwestern Nigeria.”
Engineering Science and Technology, an International Journal, 23(1), 95-103.

Alhassan, M. S., & Omoniyi, T. A. (2018). “Investigating the Quality Control of Sandcrete
Block Production in Nigeria.”
African Journal of Engineering and Technology, 11(2), 147-156.

Ogunyemi, O. O., & Abiola, A. A. (2020). “Evaluation of Compressive Strength of Sandcrete

Blocks Made from Locally Sourced Materials.”
International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology, 9(3), 56-64.

Anosike, U. B., & Ojo, O. A. (2017). “Assessment of the Durability of Sandcrete Blocks under
Variable Weather Conditions in Nigeria.”
Journal of Civil Engineering and Construction Technology, 8(4), 55-62.

Oluwaseun, A. K., & Akintoye, F. S. (2022). “Sustainability and Performance of Sandcrete

Blocks in Tropical Climates: A Case Study in Nigeria.”
Sustainable Construction Materials and Technologies, 5(2), 77-85.

Emenike, E. O., & Odesola, I. A. (2021). “Effect of Admixtures on the Compressive Strength
and Water Absorption Properties of Sandcrete Blocks.”
Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering, 33(6), 1052-1060.
Babatunde, O. M., & Sadiq, R. O. (2022). “A Review of the Structural Performance of
Sandcrete Blocks for Building Construction in Nigeria.”
Journal of Building Materials Science, 7(1), 92-101.

Nwachukwu, C. C., & Ezema, I. O. (2019). “A Study on the Durability of Sandcrete Blocks
Subjected to Accelerated Weathering Conditions.”
International Journal of Applied Engineering Research, 14(11), 2642-2651.