A Compression Test Conducted on Normal Weight Hollow Concrete Blocks

Pisit Thongjub; Thongchai Phothong; Kritsada Anantakarn; Yasser Arab; Bhattraradej Boonsap Witchayangkoon

:: International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Applied Sciences & Technologies

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ISSN 2228-9860
eISSN 1906-9642
CODEN: ITJEA8

FEATURE PEER-REVIEWED ARTICLE

Vol.16(1) (2025)

A Compression Test Conducted on Normal Weight Hollow Concrete Blocks

Pisit Thongjub (Department of Civil Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Thammasat University, Rangsit, THAILAND)
Thongchai Phothong (Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi, THAILAND),
Kritsada Anatakarn (Division of Civil Engineering and Construction Management, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, Uthenthawai Campus, THAILAND),
Yasser Arab (Department of Architectural Engineering, Dhofar University, Salalah, SULTANATE of OMAN), and
Bhattraradej Boonsap Witchayangkoon (Department of Civil Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Thammasat University, Rangsit, THAILAND and Thammasat University Research Unit in Climate Change and Sustainability, Department of Civil Engineering, Thammasat School of Engineering, Thammasat University, THAILAND).

Discipline: Civil Engineering & Construction Technology.
➤ FullText

doi: 10.14456/ITJEMAST.2025.4

Keywords: Brick compression test; Loadbearing concrete masonry; HCB; HCB end crushing; ASTM C90; Hollow blocks void area; HCB test failure modes; HCB block spalling.

Abstract

This work outlines the findings of a compression test conducted on normal weight hollow concrete blocks (HCBs) to assess their structural performance and suitability for load-bearing applications. The test adhered to applicable ASTM/IS standards, concentrating on essential factors such as compressive strength, failure mode, and dimensional stability. A total of 13 specimens (dimensions 140w x 190h x 390l mm) were prepared under air-cured tropical conditions until age 28 days and subjected to axial loading (compression testing) until failure using a universal testing machine. The average compressive strength was determined from multiple samples, and variations resulting from manufacturing inconsistencies were examined. The results demonstrate that the HCBs fulfill the minimum strength criteria for standard construction applications (exceed ASTM C90), with failure patterns primarily exhibiting vertical cracking along the loading axis. These findings endorse the utilization of HCBs in cost-effective and structurally reliable construction methods, while also highlighting opportunities for enhancing material uniformity and production processes.

Paper ID: 16A1D

Cite this article:

Thongjub, P., Phothong, T., Anantakarn, K., Arab, Y., Witchayangkoon, B. B. (2025). A Compression Test Conducted on Normal Weight Hollow Concrete Blocks. International Transaction Journal of Engineering, Management, & Applied Sciences & Technologies, 16(1), 16A1D, 1-9. http://doi.org/10.14456/ITJEMAST.2025.4

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