Predictive Modelling of Compressive Strength of Rice Husk Ash Stabilized Clay Burnt Bricks
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1011-4935Keywords:
Rice husk ash, Clay bricks, Compressive strength, Regression modelling, Soil stabilizationAbstract
This study investigates the predictive modelling of compressive strength of rice husk ash (RHA) stabilized clay burnt bricks using consistency limit and compaction properties. Natural clay soil was first characterized through index property tests and chemical composition analysis as conducted to assess its suitability for brick production. Rice husk ash was incorporated into the clay at varying proportions (0–20%) to evaluate its influence on the clay consistency, compaction behavior, and the compressive strength of burnt bricks. Laboratory results showed that RHA addition significantly reduced the Atterberg limits, indicating decreased plasticity and improved workability. Compaction tests revealed an increase in optimum moisture content with RHA content, while maximum dry density slightly increased at low RHA levels and decreased at higher levels due to the lightweight nature of the ash. Compressive strength improved with RHA addition up to an optimum content of 5%, beyond which strength declined. Bricks containing up to 15% RHA met the minimum strength requirement of 3.5 MPa specified in NIS 87:2004. A multilinear regression model was developed using plasticity index, optimum moisture content, and maximum dry density, showing good predictive performance (R² = 0.84) with close agreement between measured and predicted values. The study demonstrates that moderate RHA incorporation can enhance brick strength while promoting sustainable utilization of agricultural waste.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Benjamin Kuma Jechira, Joel Godwin, Luqman Ugbede Aliyu
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