DEVELOPMENT OF TRADITIONAL
BRICK USING NATURAL FOAMING
AGENT
R.Akshaya¹,Dr.A.Shalini²
¹UG Student, Department of Civil, Sona College of
Technology, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
²Assitant Professor, Department of Civil, Sona College of
Technology, Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract - This study presents a novel approach to
traditional brick manufacturing by incorporating
soapnut berry water, a natural surfactant-rich solution,
as a substitute for conventional water. Soapnut berries,
derived from the Sapindus mukorossi tree, possess
saponins known for their foaming and cleansing
properties. The research investigates the effects of
varying concentrations of soapnut berry water on the
mechanical properties, durability, and environmental
impact of bricks. Experimental trials explore different
mix proportions and harden and solidify techniques to
optimize the performance of soapnut berry water-based
bricks. The study evaluates the compressive strength,
water absorption and weathering resistance of the
produced bricks compared to conventional ones.
Economic feasibility and environmental sustainability
are also analyzed to assess the practicality of integrating
soapnut berry water into brick manufacturing
processes. The findings of this research offer a
promising eco-friendly alternative for traditional brick
production, contributing to sustainable practices in the
construction industry.
Keywords - Soapnut berry solution, Foaming,
Compressive strength, Water absorption, Economic
feasibility
I.INTRODUCTION
This transformative fusion of environmental mindfulness
and cutting-edge construction innovation in sustainable
brick development extends beyond a mere shift in materials
—it represents a paradigm shift. Clay, providing
foundational support, stands as a versatile cornerstone,
showcasing adaptability in manufacturing processes. Its
inherent malleability not only ensures structural strength
but also opens avenues for diverse applications,
highlighting clay's dynamic role as a key building material.
River sand's significance transcends that of a mere filler; it
actively contributes to enhancing structural integrity,
fortifying the overall strength and resilience of the resulting
bricks. Lime, acting as a binder, becomes the linchpin in
fostering cohesion and durability within the intricate brick
matrix. This pivotal role guarantees not only the
maintenance of structural integrity but also imparts
remarkable longevity, a testament to the sustainability
inherent in these construction practices.
The introduction of soap nut berry into this natural
amalgamation adds a unique layer to the sustainable
narrative. Beyond its potential as a natural cleaning agent,
the incorporation of soap nut berry seamlessly aligns with
eco-conscious practices, creating a holistic synergy in the
production process. This comprehensive combination not
only underscores a commitment to environmental
sustainability but also spotlights the multifaceted benefits
these natural components bring to the dynamic realm of
brick development.
In delving into these aspects, we transcend conventional
construction methods, gaining profound insights into a
paradigm that doesn't merely erect structures but cultivates
a symbiotic relationship with the environment. This holistic
perspective emphasizes the transformative potential of eco-
friendly brick development, charting a course towards a
more sustainable and resilient future within the
construction industry—a future where innovation aligns
seamlessly with environmental responsibility.
II. MATERIAL
A. Reason for using clay in brick
The clay used for this experiment was collected from
vriddhachalam (located in tamilnadu).The multifaceted
advantages of utilizing clay in brick production underscore
its paramount role in sustainable and resilient construction
practices. Clay's inherent versatility allows for the creation
of diverse architectural designs and structural elements,
fostering innovation in the brick-making process.
Furthermore, the exceptional binding properties of fired
clay contribute significantly to the structural integrity of
bricks, ensuring the creation of durable and robust
construction materials. According to IS: 2117-1975, the silt Figure 2 River Sand

C. Reason for Soapnut berry in brick

clay are contain in 80 percent or more silt and less than 12
percent clay. Fig. 1 shows when it completed, grey to
blackish Ash was obtained.
Soap nuts are actually the dried shells (or husks) from the
soapberry nut Fig. 3, which come from the Sapindus
mukorossi tree—a unique species of trees found in both the
eastern and western hemispheres, but native to the tropical
conditions of India and Nepal. Sapindus for their foaming
and cleansing properties. Soapnut berry soaking in the
water in 3 days then to use alternative of water in
traditional brick. The novelty is to use low consumption of
water in brick with the help of Soapnut solution.

Figure 1 silt clay

B. Reason for using river sand in brick

The integration of river sand into brick manufacturing

offers a range of compelling benefits that enhance both the
production process and the performance of the final
product. River sand, with its fine and uniform texture, plays
a pivotal role in fortifying the structural integrity of bricks. Figure 3 Soapnut berry
Its cohesive nature results in a compact brick matrix,
contributing to heightened strength and durability. Beyond
mechanical advantages, the fine texture enhances III. MEASUREMENT OF PROPERTIES
workability during manufacturing, facilitating smooth
molding and shaping processes, leading to consistently A. Water Absorption Test
well-formed bricks. Additionally, the inclusion of river
sand mitigates the risk of shrinkage, ensuring the final Three sample brick of each kind were taken to test the
product maintains stability throughout drying and firing water absorption of the burnt bricks Fig. 4. In the
stages. This natural material is not only cost-effective but beginning, bricks were exposed to sunshine for day while
also aesthetically appealing, lending a smoother surface to the dry weight was recorded. The weight of the bricks after
bricks. Its thermal properties contribute to insulation, being submerged in water for a day was also measured. The
supporting energy efficiency in buildings. Embracing river water absorption percentage was calculated using the
sand aligns with sustainable practices, considering its following equation (IS 3495:1992,part II):
natural composition, and its compatibility with mortar
Water absorption % = (W2-W1)/W1 × 100 (1)
further reinforces its role in cohesive construction systems.
With erosion resistance and widespread availability, river where,
sand emerges as a versatile and environmentally conscious
choice in the realm of brick production. Refer indian soil W1 = Wt. of dry brick
classification system IS 383, 1970 and zone. It graphically
W2 = Wt. of wet brick after 24 hours
represented by zone II and Fig. 2 shows the given soil gap
graded sand graduation of soil particles in SP-SM sand
with more fingers.
 Figure 4 water absorption test Width 2240 to 2160 mm (2200 ± 40 mm)

Height 1440 to 1360 mm (1400 ± 40 mm)

(For 70 mm high bricks)

640 to 560 mm (600 ± 40 min)

(For 30 mm high bricks)

B. Compressive strength test

Compressive strength test Fig. 5 on bricks were

performed to measure the load-carrying capacity of bricks
under compression. This test was carried out with the help
of a compression testing machine (200T) in the laboratory
of the Department of Civil Engineering at Sona College of
Technology, Salem. Compressive strength was calculated
from this formula (IS 3495: 1992,part I):

S=P/A (2)

Where, Figure 6 Tolerance test

S = Crushing strength, MPa

P = Maximum applied load, N IV. Result and Discussion

A = Cross- sectional area ( Thickness × Width ), mm² A. Water absorption analysis

Brick’s strength depends on its water absorption

capacity. Water absorption of bricks occurs due to the
presence of pores or voids in the bricks. The more
pores or voids in the brick, the more it will absorb
water and reduces the load-carrying capacity. It was
observed that for clay bricks, water absorption
increases with the increased percentage of clay.
However, the rate of increase of water absorption was
not the same, and it was relatively slow (Figure 3). It
was also observed that First Class bricks, in the case
of Manual Handling bricks, absorbed a very lower
percentage 9.59% (Figure 4) of water compared to
clay conventional bricks (11.8%, 11.97%, 11.18%,
11.42%). It conducted to determine durability
property of bricks such as degree of burning, quality
and behaviour of bricks in weathering.
Figure 5 Compressive strength test

B. Compressive strength analysis

C. Tolerance test
Hhj
This test checks the dimensions (length, width, and
height) of bricks to ensure they meet the specified
standards and tolerances. As per IS 1077 (1992), clause 6.2,
Tolerances test of the dimensions of bricks Fig. 6 when
tested in accordance with 6.2.1 shall be within the
following limits per 20 bricks for non - modular size:

Length 4520 to 4680 mm (4600 ± 80 mm)