Influence of Waste Gypsum on the Microstructural Characteristics and Strength Behavior of Unfired Mud Block

Construction technology in the twenty-first century is on the peak yet developing countries of the world still dream for shelter in bad weather conditions and apply old traditional techniques for construction of their houses. The reason is the increasing cost of construction materials due to energy crises, poor economic conditions, and sometimes the love of people toward earthen architecture culture. The world will prefer low energy alternatives to conventional construction. Some alternatives regarding conventional construction like mud block masonry are part of this research paper to avoid shrinking natural resources and take control of the energy crisis. This research work focuses on the compressive strength of the mud block by stabilizing it with additives like waste gypsum. The study also intended to investigate the rapid hardening of the masonry block. Finally, study the morphology of the stabilized blocks by using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDXMA). This research found that the compressive strength of waste gypsum-stabilized mud block at 7 days and 14 days increases with the increasing rate of waste gypsum from 0 to 20%. This research will help the poor community by reducing the economy and energy consumed in the construction of houses. Besides, this research will play a role by minimizing the consumption of natural resources, encourage people to reuse waste gypsum in construction without compromising on environmental pollution.