Far Eastern University Institute of Architecture and Fine Arts

Proposed Refuge for Abandoned Street children Bioclimatic Filipino Architecture

A Thesis Proposal Submitted to the Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement in ARCH 511: Pre-Thesis Design Problems

Submitted by: Zarah Rose De Torres Ramirez

Arch. Gregoria Mercado Class Adviser, ARCH 511 AR0953 August 27, 2013

2.2 Research Focus Title: Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) Sources:

Wall Building Technical Brief (n.d.). Building with Interlocking Blocks. Retrieved August 26, 2013from http://www.cd3wd.com/cd3wd_40/GATE_DL/BUILDING/IB/EN/IB.HTM

Wheeler, G. (2005). Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks: Manual of Construction. Center for Vocational and Building Technology, Volume II. Retrieved August 26,2013 from http://www.cvbt-web.org/uploads/Pubs/RhinoCwb/CONSTRCT.pdf

Guillaud, H., Joffroy, T., Odul, P., et.al. (1985). Compressed Earth Blocks: Manual of Design and Construction, Volume II. Retrieved August 26,2013 from http://www.ecohabitar.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/04-5793-1.pdf

Mani, S. (n.d.). Earthen Architecture For Sustainable Habitat and Compressed Stabilised Earth Block Technology. India: Auroville Building Centre. Retrieved August 26,2013 from http://www.ada.gov.sa/idc/groups/public/documents/AR_ADA_Researches/004568.pdf

Why are Bricks Sustainable? Retrieved August 27,2013 from http://www.thinkbrick. com.au/ why-are-bricks-sustainable-4/

Summary:

The research activities that ultimately led to the development of the interlocking block technique, which is gaining popularity in Thailand, as well as Malaysia and the
Figure RF1: Various Types of Interlocking Blocks

Philippines, date back to the 1960s. In these countries, houses in the rural areas were traditionally built of timber, which was readily available in the extensive forest areas. However, the alarming rate of deforestation in Thailand - from 70% forest cover in 1936 to about 55% in 1961 (now it is less than 30%) - led the government to initiate research into alternative materials for building construction in the rural areas. o The Interlocking Block Technique

The concept of interlocking blocks is based on the following principles: The blocks are shaped with projecting parts, which fit exactly into depressions in the blocks placed above, such that they are automatically aligned horizontally and vertically thus bricklaying is possible without special masonry skills. Since the bricks can be laid dry, no mortar is required and a considerable amount of cement is saved. Each block has vertical holes, which serve two purposes: 1. to reduce the weight of the block, and 2. to insert steel rods or bamboo for reinforcement, and/or to pour liquid mortar (grout) into the holes, which run through the full height of the wall, thus increasing its stability. The length of each block is exactly double its width, in order to achieve accurate alignment of bricks placed at right angles. o Types of interlocking blocks A variety of interlocking blocks have been developed during the past years, differing in material composition, shape and size, depending on the required strengths and uses:

Different materials Soil-cement blocks Depending on the soil and cement qualities, the cement-to-soil ratio usually lies between 1: 6 and 1: 10, by volume. (Laboratory tests are essential). Rice husk ash (RHA) cement blocks: The cement-to-RHA ratio is generally 1: 4, by volume. Two types of blocks can be produced: white blocks, with a compressive strength of 4 N/mm, using ash (amorphous silica) from field kilns, burnt below 900C; black blocks, with a compressive strength of 1.4 N/mm, using boiler ash (crystalline silica), burnt up to 1200C; Concrete blocks: A typical mix proportion of cement-to-sand-to-gravel is 1: 5: 3. Different shapes and sizes Full blocks (300x 150x 100 mm) for all standard walls (single or double brick thick) Half blocks (150 x 150 x 100 mm), which can be moulded to size, or made by cutting freshly moulded full blocks in half. Channel blocks, same sizes as full and half blocks, but with a channel along the long axis, into which reinforcing steel and concrete can be placed to form lintels or ring beams. The vertical sides of the blocks can be flat or have recesses, and the vertical grout holes can be square or round.

o Advantages The materials required for block production and building construction are usually locally available in most regions; therefore, in areas in which timber is scarce and expensive, construction with interlocking blocks has environmental advantages (no deforestation, low energy requirement for block production and transportation). Unlike the case of timber constructions, termites cannot cause damage to the blocks. Compared with conventional masonry, the dry assembly of interlocking blocks saves construction time and a large amount of mortar, which would otherwise be
Figure RF2: Typical construction site of an Interlocking soil-cement block house in Thailand

required for the horizontal and vertical joints.

Without the need for high-waged skilled masons (except for the base course), by saving cement (less mortar) and with the speed of construction, the building costs are lower than for standard masonry construction. Additional costs are saved by building loadbearing walls, instead of infill walls between structural frameworks. The structural stability and durability of interlocking block constructions can be far greater than for comparable timber constructions. Grout holes and channel blocks provide means to insert steel reinforcements in vulnerable parts of buildings for increased wind and earthquake resistance. Interlocking blocks can be produced on a small scale on the building site (for selfhelp construction), or on a large scale in centralized production units.

 The interlocking block technique is suitable for the construction of multi-storeyed buildings, in the same way as for standard masonry constructions. Significance of the Research Focus

The use of Interlocking Compressed Earth Block is greatly significant for it is lowcost earthquake-resistant using indigenous materials. According to Think Brick Australias report, the bricks have sustainable qualities such as: o Brick lasts for a very long time

Long before 'sustainability' was a priority, builders and home owners were using clay bricks because they lasted forever and required almost no maintenance over time.

Brick buildings are strong, durable and can resist extreme weather events through fire-resistant construction and resistance to impacts and wind-borne debris. o Brick buildings are energy efficient

By using bricks in conjunction with good solar passive design and insulation, home owners can now create a house that requires no artificial heating or cooling in nearly all parts of Australia, significantly reducing energy use.

Building with brick helps reduce internal temperature fluctuations ensuring comfortable living and working conditions throughout the day or year. Brick's

exceptional thermal mass means that it absorbs heat and slows down heat transfer. In summer, brick gradually absorbs heat from the sun and keeps the building cooler during the hottest part of the day. In winter, the brick holds the building's heat longer, keeping occupants warmer.

Over a 50 year period, life cycle analysis (LCA) shows that most energy (89%) is used in the operational phase of a house, rather than in the building process. In particular,

heating, ventilation and air conditioning represent a bigger source of green house gas emissions than manufacture and construction, so it makes sense to focus on building your house to reduce operational energy by using materials with a high thermal mass such as brick. o Efficient manufacture has reduced the energy required to make brick

Over the past thirty years the manufacture of bricks has improved dramatically, contributing to the inherent sustainability of the product. Manufacturing plants have been re-engineered to make use of highly efficient tunnel kilns, fired using natural gas, and all waste heat and clay is recycled within the plant. Ongoing innovation in manufacturing processes means the energy required to make clay bricks is reduced every year. o Bricks serve multiple functions, reducing environmental impacts

Brick walls fulfill multiple uses including providing structure, finish, acoustic comfort, thermal comfort, good indoor air quality, fire resistance, impact resistance and durability, all in one product, reducing environmental impacts and increasing energy and resource efficiency. o Bricks can be reused or recycled

Bricks can be reused or recycled in three ways. Firstly because of their longevity and durability, brick buildings can often be renovated for different purposes, removing the need to construct a whole new building with all its associated environmental impacts. Secondly bricks can be salvaged, cleaned and reused to build new buildings. Thirdly old bricks can be recycled into new bricks or into other building materials such as aggregate for concrete, for landscaping or as sub-base for pavements or roads.

o Brick buildings provide healthy environments

Brick walls can contribute to improved indoor air quality by eliminating the need for paints and the resulting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and by eliminating a food source for mould. Objectives of the Research: o To achieve the abundant advantages of the material in the project in order to serve the children as well as the other target users the maximum comfort they deserve. o To apply harmony to the design of the building with its natural surroundings. o To take the benefit of the materials financial efficiency to contribute to the operational expenses advantages. Analytical Framework: Existing Site Problems

Solution Identification

Building Part/s identification

Material 1

Material 2

Material 3

Chosen Material/s

Proposed Refuge for Street Children

 Comparative analysis of your focus compared with other conventional options. Concrete Hollow Blocks (Concrete Masonry Unit CMU) Made from a mixture of Portland cement, blended cement, various types of aggregates, and water. Cement o Need for more steel bars o Need for forms

Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB)

Materials

Gravel, sand, silt and clay

Binder

Laying of blocks

Silt and Clay o The blocks have a male top and female bottom that lock with overlapping blocks. They are easy to lay and require no mortar. o Few bars is sufficient

Weight Finishing Economy Columns Construction No Plastering & Paint Required efficient The blocks itself are loadbearing When it is laid its done

Lightweight Plastering and Paint Required efficient Need columns for support Need for the plaster to dry. CMU reinforced with bars depending on the given stress. Produce more heat 75 years lifespan

Blocks alone have a compressive strength Strengths suitable for two or even three story buildings. The blocks provide thermal Insulation and sound insulation Can last up to 400 years Lifespan with good roofing and foundation Recommendation for Application:

The Interlocking Compressed Earth Block (ICEB) will be applied to walls of the project. Wherein, ample windows will be situated in the buildings for windward and leeward considerations. Rectangular shape in plan will be followed for the maximum use of the blocks. Moreover having this regular shape in plan gives maximum space for the interiors.