Investigation of New Bricks (Sand Lime Bricks With Polystyrene and Gypsum Addition)

The main drawback of lime materials is absorbing water easily, therefore causes fluorescence when not exposed to air. In addition, very heavy weight and rough surface of bricks may cause mold growth. Researches done in this area have always focused on durability and strength. The challenge of modern and new requirements, the need for sustainable low-cost buildings to host people and the lack of knowledge in this area justify the need for more researches to be focused on the strength, lightweight bricks and absorption capacity of the sand-lime bricks. The use of polystyrene has many advantages in the construction materials. This study presents the results of the experimental investigation that was carried out to find the optimum mix percentage of new bricks. Brick specimens of size 150 mm×150 mm×150 mm were cast for different mix percentages of polystyrene, gypsum, lime and sand. The results showed the variation of compressive strength for different mix proportions of the mentioned materials. The compressive strength, absorption capacity, and thermal insulation of the newly produced bricks with optimized composition under various brick forming presses were determined. The results of this study suggested that it was possible to produce good quality light weight non-fired structural bricks compared with cement bricks.