Experimental Investigation on Interlocking Cement Concrete Paver Block by Using Steel Mesh
摘要
Paver blocks are the most demanding surface course material since many decades. It is the most cost-effective, and strong material. It can be used as a surface course in high and low-loaded places such as roads, petrol pumps, gardens, etc. Generally, failure in paver blocks occurs due to differential settling of underneath soil. This failure of the paver block can be reduced by introducing reinforcement, such as steel mesh, wire, etc. This investigation aims to study the effect of using Steel Mesh with its specific size depending upon the paver block’s size. It helps to reduce the paver block's thickness and enhance its strength. The experimental study includes the Compressive strength test and water absorption test, on specific design mix with or without incorporation of steel mesh in paver blocks of various thicknesses. The result of this experimental investigation exhibits that, the inclusion of reinforcement on the paver block, enhanced the compressive strength by 22 N/mm2 to 33 N/mm2, then the conventional one. Furthermore, the analysis by the authors has demonstrated that, with minimum increase in cost (Rs.1.90/block), it is possible to produce lesser thick paver block with higher compressive strength, by incorporating steel mesh. Also, it is noticeable that, significant increase in compressive strength is possible by keeping the same thickness of the paver block, even if for lesser concrete grade. In addition, the current study has effectively solved the problem of displacement of damaged/broken paver blocks from their original position and creating potholes, hence reducing the accident’s possibility.