Application of Statistical Model for Predicting the Compressive Strength of Sandcretes Made with different Fine Aggregates Available in Nsukka

Abstract

The masonry unit commonly used for wall partitioning in Nigeria is Sandcrete and is comprised of cement, fine aggregate (sand), and water. This research is aimed at ascertaining the effect of different fine aggregates available in Nsukka Local Government Area of Enugu State Nigeria, on the compressive strength of sandcrete. This is also, to contribute to quality maintenance in the production of sandcretes in Nsukka.  A mix ratio of 1:6 for cement and sand was used in the production of the sandcrete cubes and a water-cement ratio of 0.6 was maintained in all the mix. The Sandcrete cubes were produced using the three major fine aggregates (river sand, gutter sand, and obimo sand) available in Nsukka. The results obtained show that sandcrete cubes produced with the obimo sand gave the highest strength in compression, while the gutter sand attained the least strength in compression. The E-view software was used to formulate a statistical model for predicting the compressive strength of sandcrete cubes using any of the different fine aggregates considered in this study.