Determination of Some Physical and Mechanical Properties of Termite Mound Clay Relevant to Silo Construction

Abstract

As a way of providing cheap and durable grain silos, experiments were co. dm ed to determine some physical and mechanical properties of termite mound clay (TMC) as a possible construction material. Standard methods were used to determine water absorption ratio, linear shrinkage, compressive and bond strengths, nd oven-dry density of TMC bricks. Results obtained showed that TMC has a water absorption ratio of 3.3%, linear , hrinkage of 3.6%, compressive strength of 5.8N/mm2, bond strength of 22kN/m2 and 1415.7 kg/m3. These results are within the range expected of structural materials commonly used for silo construction. Thus, TMC was found to have potentials as a construction material for grain silos especially in countries like Nigeria where it is available in abundance. Further studies were recommended to ascertain the effect of additives, firing temperatures and firing duration on the properties of TMC bricks.