INVESTIGATION THE IFLUENCE OF CEMENT ADDITION ON THE COMPREHENSIVE STRENGHT OF LATERITE BLOCKS

ABSTRACT This study investigates the Influence of Cement Addition on the Compressive Strength of Laterite Blocks investigating the effect of cement stabilization on the strength and durability of laterite blocks, with the aim of determining the optimum cement content for structural applications. Laterite soil was sourced from Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, and stabilized with Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) at 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% by weight. Standard block specimens (450 × 225 × 150 mm) were molded and cured for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days. Laboratory tests conducted included sieve analysis, specific gravity, moisture content, Atterberg limits, water absorption, and compressive strength. Results revealed that cement addition significantly reduced plasticity and water absorption, while enhancing dimensional stability and compressive strength. At 28 days, un-stabilized laterite blocks showed a very low compressive strength of 0.11 N/mm², while 15% cement-stabilized blocks achieved a maximum strength of 0.81 N/mm². Water absorption decreased sharply from 4.47% (0% cement) to below 0.5% (10–15% cement), confirming improved durability. The study concludes that cement stabilization is highly effective in enhancing the performance of laterite blocks. It is recommended that a minimum of 10% cement be adopted for block production to achieve adequate strength and durability, while 15% cement is suitable for critical structural applications. Further research should investigate combining cement with supplementary stabilizers such as lime, fly ash, or rice husk ash for cost-effectiveness and sustainability. has better strength properties than Huda aggregate, therefore it is recommended to use Kola aggregate in the absence of granite in concrete mixtures.