Cement stabilization of laterite-quarry dust mixture for interlocking brick production

The suitability of laterite mixed with 0 %, 10 %, 20 % and 30 % Quarry dust, stabilized with 0 %, 2%, 4 %, 6 % and 8 % cement content by dry weight of laterite for interlocking brick production was investigated. Grain size analysis, was performed on natural laterite, while Atterberg's limits test, was performed on laterite, mixed with quarry dust and cement. Compressive strength test and water absorption test were performed on bricks produced using different combination of laterite, quarry dust and cement. The 28 day compressive strength of bricks produced with untreated laterite increased from 0.92 N/mm2to peak value of 5.66 N/mm2when stabilized with a combination of 30 % quarry dust and 8 % cement content. Water absorption value of bricks decreased from a state of saturation to a minimum value of 5.16% at a combination of 30% quarry dust plus 8 % cement. Results of tests clearly showed that the use of quarry dust will enhance the compressive strength and water absorption values of interlocking brick. Its usage will provide an effective way of disposing quarry dust left as wastes at quarry sites.