Chapter I

THE PROBLEM

This chapter introduces the significance of the problem by giving information, stating the

objectives, formulating hypotheses, identifying the coverage and constraints, and defining

operational terms of this study.

A. Background of the study

The high cost of construction materials like cement and reinforcement bars, has led to

increased cost of construction. This, coupled with the pollution associated with cement production,

has necessitated a search for an alternative binder which can be used sorely or in partial

replacement of cement in concrete production.

The cost of cement used in concrete works is on the increase and unaffordable, yet the need

for housing and other constructions requiring this material keeps growing with increasing

population, thus the need to find alternative binding materials that can be used solely or in partial

replacement of cement.

Tropical almond (Terminalia catappa) is a large, spreading tree distributed throughout the

tropics in coastal environments. It originally from South Asia (including Philippines). Since

Philippines is near the coastal areas, it has an abundant number of Tropical almond (Terminalia

catappa) and its fruits are scattered everywhere.

Thus, one study says that the density values of the Terminalia catappa fruit fiber appear

less than the synthetic fibers and it is observed that application of these fibers could be used to

make less weight composite structure.

 Hence, the researchers came up with the study titled, “Comparative analysis on the

reinforcement capabilities of Terminalia catappa fruit as an alternative component of hollow

cement blocks”.

B. Statement of the problem

Generally, this study compared the reinforcement capabilities of Terminalia catappa fruit

as an alternative component on hollow cement blocks.

Furthermore, the researchers seek to find the following specific objectives:

1. Did the Terminalia catappa fruit reinforce the hollow cement block in terms of:

a. Impact toughness

b. Water absorption

2. Is there a significant difference on the reinforcement capability between the control

group and each of the experimental group, Terminalia catappa fruit?