PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT OF HEMP-ENHANCED INTERLOCKING BLOCKS WITH DURABILITY EVALUATION AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY

This study focused on the property improvement and durability evaluation of hemp-enhanced interlocking blocks to meet the standards specified in TIS 58-2560. The blocks were produced using Type I Portland cement, soil, and hemp with a weight ratio of 1:2:0.4 and were formed using interlocking block-making machines. The properties were enhanced through the incorporation of Al2(SO4)3, natural rubber latex, and polymers. Samples were air-cured for 28 days and subjected to 12 cycles of wetting and drying, after which they were tested for compressive strength, water absorption, and dry density. Thermal properties were also evaluated to calculate the OTTV. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of 15% Al2(SO4)3 improved the compressive strength, with values of 5.41 MPa after air curing, which increased by 111.33% compared to the hemp concrete without improvement. After 12 wetting and drying cycles, compressive strength was 5.55 MPa, with both values meeting the TIS 58-2560 standards. Additionally, thermal conductivity was recorded at 0.16 w/m°C, with a specific heat capacity of 1.24 kJ/kg°C and a density of 1,260 kg/m3. The OTTV peaked at 19.97 w/m2 when the walls faced southeast, which was lower than that of red bricks, concrete blocks, and lightweight concrete blocks. These findings indicated that hemp-enhanced interlocking blocks with 15% Al2(SO4)3 not only met strength standards but also offered energy-efficient properties, making them suitable for sustainable construction. This material effectively reduced energy consumption from air conditioning due to its low OTTV values. As it utilized hemp, an agricultural waste product that would otherwise require disposal, it also contributed to waste reduction and minimized environmental impact.