The Effect of Moisture Content and Curing on the Properties of the Interlocking Compressed Brick

Abstract The moisture content and curing condition affect the compressive strength of the interlocking compressed brick (ICB). Higher strength of ICB can only be achieved when the moisture content is at the optimum level and under proper curing method. However, the moisture content of soil is varied and difficult to be identified. In addition, there is no standard of curing method was established for ICB. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of moisture content and types of curing on the compressive strength and water absorption of the ICB samples. Two (2) different moisture contents were investigated, which are the 11% and 18%. All ICB samples were cured under three (3) different curing conditions and tested for the compressive strength, water absorption and density tests. The findings showed that all ICB samples containing 18% of moisture exceeded the minimum requirement of compressive strength (7 N/mm 2 ) based on MS76:1972. Meanwhile, ICB cured under Curing B condition has shown the highest compressive strength and lower water absorption. This indicates that sufficient moisture and proper curing method can produce good ICB brick for use in the building construction.