Physico-Mechanical Characteristics of Earth Bricks Stabilized with Cement and Padouk Sawdust Residues

The objective of this work is to improve the physical and mechanical properties of stabilized earth blocks (BTC) used in construction in the Ndé department of Cameroon. To achieve this, two stabilizers, cement and sawdust, were used at varying percentages of 0%, 4%, 6%, and 8%. Physical characterization tests, including natural water content, specific weight, jar test, Protor, and Atterberg limits, were conducted. Additionally, mechanical tests, such as compression and three-point bending, were performed. The results show that as the amount of stabilizer increases, the density of BTC decreases. The samples with 8% sawdust have the highest density, while those without stabilizers have the lowest. Porosity decreases as sawdust and cement content increases, with smaller values observed in samples with 8% sawdust or cement. Our tests indicate that blocks stabilized with cement have slightly higher compressive strength than those stabilized with sawdust. However, the water absorption rate increases with higher sawdust content.