SKAA 2112/ SAB 2112/ SAM 3123 1

FINAL EXAMINATION
SEMESTER I, SESSION 2012/2013
COURSE CODE : SKAA 2112/ SAB 2112/ SAM 3123

COURSE : CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS

PROGRAMME : SKAW/ SAW

DURATION : 2 HOURS

DATE : JANUARY, 2013

INSTRUCTION TO CANDIDATES:
1. ANSWER ALL QUESTIONS.

WARNING!
Students caught copying/cheating during the examination will be liable for
disciplinary actions and the faculty may recommend the student to be expelled from
the study.

This examination question consists of ( 3 ) printed pages only.

 SKAA 2112/ SAB 2112/ SAM 3123 2

Q1. (a) Define ordinary Portland cement and explain its function in concrete
mix. Discuss with example the effects of the following properties of
cement on the strength and durability of concrete:
(i) Chemical composition
(ii) Fineness
(10 marks)

(b) List three types of tests that can be used to measure workability of
concrete. Describe the workability test that can be carried outside
laboratory and explain how the level of workability will affect concrete
strength.
(9 marks)

(c) Discuss the importance and application of nondestructive test of

concrete.
(6 marks)
(25 marks)

Q2. (a) List three purpose of aggregates in concrete. Discuss important factors
need to be taken into account on how to select the suitable type of
coarse and fine aggregates to produce a good quality concrete.
(13 marks )

(b) Discuss and decide action to be taken with justification for the
following cases:

i) Quality of cement in the concrete mix does not comply with the
standards.

ii) Ready mixed concrete to be transported from a long distance.

iii) Late arrival of ready mixed concrete at site and the concrete
started to set.

iv) Raining during concreting process.

(12 marks)
(25 marks)
 SKAA 2112/ SAB 2112/ SAM 3123 3

Q3. (a) List three differences between softwood and hardwood timber.
(5 marks)

(b) Explain with illustration how defects affect strength and durability of
timber. Discuss the required properties of timber to be used as
structural and nonstructural member in building construction.
(10 marks)

(c) Discuss and determine the important properties of steel and its
applications in construction.
(10 marks)
(25 marks)

Q4. (a) List three types of masonry works. Describe the properties and uses of
common, engineering, and facing bricks.
(10 marks)

(b) Explain the use of glass and plastic in building construction.

(8 marks)

(c) Discuss the development and current uses of Polymer Composite

materials in construction industry.
(7 marks)
(25 marks)