TITLE:
Effect of Curing Cycles on the Characterization of Laterite Soils Stabilized with Cement and Natural Pozzolan
AUTHORS:
Makomra Valentin, Mbuh Moses Kuma, Kaze Rodrigue Cyriaque, Moussa Issa
KEYWORDS:
Compressed Earth Block, Natural Pozzolan, Strength, Durability, Curing
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Applied Sciences,
Vol.15 No.10,
October
29,
2025
ABSTRACT: Background: To promote the use of local materials, reduce construction costs and energy consumption, and improve environmental conditions, many researchers are focusing on partially or fully replacing Portland cement with pozzolanic binders. Compressed earth blocks can be stabilized by adding small amounts of cement and natural Pozzolan to enhance some of their properties. The aim of this study is to analyze the influence of curing conditions (steam curing, oven curing, and room temperature curing) and the addition of natural Pozzolan on the mechanical properties of compressed earth blocks. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, laterite soil from Banengo was used, with 8% cement (by weight of the dry mix) from the CIMAF brand, type CEM II/B-M 42.5R, which has a setting time of 1 hour at 20˚C. Four levels of natural pozzolan 8%, 16%, 24%, and 32% were added, sourced from the Foumbot quarry. The sample with 0% pozzolan is used as the control group. The blocks were then subjected to three types of curing: steam and oven curing at 40˚C, 60˚C, and 80˚C for 24 hours, and room temperature curing at 22˚C ± 2˚C for 28 days. Results and Discussion: Steam curing at 80˚C for 24 hours produced the best results in terms of mechanical strength and durability, compared to the other methods. Oven curing also gave good results, while room temperature curing led to lower performance. This is due to better hydration and crystallization of the reaction products at higher temperatures, which speeds up the pozzolanic reaction. In addition, a pozzolan content of 32% gave the best mechanical strength for cement-stabilized earth blocks cured with steam. Conclusion: Increasing the amount of pozzolan significantly improves the mechanical strength and durability of compressed earth blocks.