Quality Assurance Handbook for Rural Roads Volume-I - pmgsy

Appendix-1
1.8 Simple Gadgets for Estimating Side Slopes
2. BRICKS
The bricks should be sound, of compact structure (as seen when broken) free from cracks and
flaws. They should be regular in shape and of uniform size (dimensional accuracy) with plane
faces and sharp edges. The colour should be uniform and of deep red or copper colour. The
quality of bricks is generally assessed by compressive strength, efflorescence, dimensional accuracy,
water absorption and evenness of baking. Some of the simple tests to fairly assess the quality of
bricks are given below:
(i) In efflorescence test, a sample brick is soaked in water for 24 hours and its appearance after
removal from water, should be free from white patches, the total area not exceeding 50%. In
case the surface area exhibiting, patches exceed 50% of total area both the brick and water
samples shall be subjected to further testing for ascertaining suitability.
(ii) In water absorption test, a brick should not absorb more than one-fifth of its dry weight
after immersion in water for 24 hours.
(iii) Bricks are considered good when clear ringing sound is heard when two bricks are struck
against each other. A sample brick should not break when dropped flat on hard ground
from a height of about 1 m.
Correct firing promotes toughness. The bricks should not be under-burnt. A well burnt
brick when scratched with a finger nail should leave no impression.
2.1 Cement-Lime (Composite) mortar
Refer to 3.2
[Source : Road Maintenance Hand book, Vol 1, United Nations Economic Commission for Africa]
Appendix-1/4