Abstract

The production of sandcrete blocks in Calabar and environ is characterised by the use of different types of fine aggregate such as river sand, gutter silted sand, quarry dust, and lateritic sand, respectively. These are either used singly, or in any combination of two types. This study investigated the impact of fine aggregate types and combinations on the mechanical and durability properties of sandcrete blocks in Calabar, Nigeria. Four commonly used fine aggregate were characterized using their specific gravity, particle size distribution, and their influences on the compressive strength and water absorption of 150mm thick, hollow sandcrete blocks. The aggregate combination of 20% river sand and 80% quarry dust resulted in the highest compressive strength, while 10% river sand and 90% laterite produced the lowest compressive strength. The study explored the impact of fine aggregate on sandcrete block properties, offering guidance for optimizing their production, considering factors such as compressive strength and water absorption.