Traditional fire-burnt clay bricks have been used in different countries around the world since ancient times. Their popularity and usage are the highest due to their availability and low cost. In Bangladesh, hundreds of hectares of agricultural land are being wasted, and forests are being destroyed to make the traditional bricks. To address the issues associated with traditional bricks, alternative construction materials are needed that are agriculture-friendly, environment-friendly, earthquake and disaster tolerant, durable, and, above all, cost-effective. One simple solution to this problem is the use of concrete blocks.
These blocks are made up of cement, sand, and 4 mm stone particles or dust where applicable. They can be manufactured using manual, mechanical, or hydraulic machines. Since the machines are electric, they do not contribute significantly to air pollution. Blocks of different qualities and prices can be produced according to specific design requirements.
Concrete blocks can be solid, interlocking, or thermal. They are lighter in weight and stronger than bricks, making them more earthquake-resistant. Moreover, concrete blocks are more thermally conductive, resulting in cost savings (25 per cent less) compared to conventional bricks. Consequently, houses built with concrete blocks are comfortable and energy-efficient in both summer and winter. Carbon emissions are reduced by about 20 per cent compared to conventional bricks. The alternative use of bricks in house construction will significantly reduce air pollution. Additionally, it will decrease the loss of agricultural land and ensure that the country's overall production is not compromised.
Md. Toufiqul Islam
Student
Department of Marketing
University of Dhaka
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