BRICKS

2.1 INTRODUCTION
 Bricks have been used throughout history in architecture due to their
durability, strength, and versatility. They provide various benefits, such as thermal
insulation, fire resistance, and resistance to weathering. In modern construction,
bricks are still widely used for building walls, facades, chimneys, pavements, and
other structural elements. They remain an integral part of the construction industry,
despite the availability of alternative materials and building techniques.

2.2 WHAT IS BRICK??

 A brick is a rectangular block made from clay, concrete, or other materials, typically
used for building walls, pavements, and other structures in construction. Bricks are
one of the oldest and most essential construction materials known to humans. They
come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, and they can be used for both functional
and decorative purposes.

 The process of making bricks involves molding the raw material, usually clay mixed
and fired in a kiln at high temperatures to harden and strengthen them. The firing
process causes chemical changes within the clay or other materials, converting them
into a durable and stable building material.

 Bricks have been used throughout history in architecture due to their durability,
strength, and versatility. They provide various benefits, such as thermal insulation, fire
resistance, and resistance to weathering. In modern construction, bricks are still
widely used for building walls, facades, chimneys, pavements, and other structural
elements. They remain an integral part of the construction industry, despite the
availability of alternative materials and building techniques.

2.3 TYPES OF BRICK

In Bangladesh, various types of bricks are commonly used for construction, considering
factors such as local availability of materials, climate, and building requirements. As of my
last knowledge update in September 2021, here are some of the types of bricks used in
Bangladesh:
1.Traditional Clay Bricks: These are the most common type of bricks used in Bangladesh.
They are made from clay and are usually air-dried or fired in traditional kilns. They come in
different sizes and qualities.
2.Auto Bricks: These bricks are machine-made and fired in modern automated kilns. They
offer better quality control and consistency compared to traditional clay bricks.

3.Concrete Bricks: Concrete bricks, made from a mixture of cement, sand, and aggregates,
are used in various construction projects in Bangladesh. They provide durability and are
available in different sizes and shapes.
4. Hollow Bricks: Hollow bricks have cavities or voids, which reduce their weight and
improve insulation. They are used in both load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls.

5. Perforated Bricks: These bricks have holes or perforations that enhance their thermal
insulation properties. They are used for various construction purposes, including partition
walls and infill walls.

6. Fly Ash Bricks: Made from a mixture of fly ash, cement, sand, and sometimes lime, these
bricks are considered more environmentally friendly and cost-effective compared to
traditional clay bricks.
7. Cement-Infused Bricks: These bricks are produced by mixing cement with clay or other
materials. They are designed to be lighter than traditional clay bricks and offer better
insulation.
8. Concrete Hollow Blocks: Similar to hollow bricks, these blocks are larger and often used
in larger construction projects like multi-story buildings.
9. Lime Bricks: Lime bricks are made by using lime as a binding material along with sand
and aggregates. They are commonly used for historical and traditional construction due to
their compatibility with older buildings.

10. CSEB (Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks): These are compressed earth
blocks that use a mix of soil, stabilizers, and sometimes cement. They are
pressed into blocks and air-dried, making them an eco-friendly option for
construction.
2.4 MANUFACTURING OF BRICKS
The manufacturing of bricks involves a series of processes that transform clay or other
suitable materials into solid, durable building units. Here's an overview of the typical
manufacturing process for bricks:
1.Selection of Raw Materials: The primary raw material for brick manufacturing is clay.
Other materials such as shale, fly ash, or other natural minerals can also be used in some
cases. The clay should have proper plasticity and consistency to ensure good forming and
firing characteristics.

1. Preparation of Clay: The raw clay is usually excavated from quarries or mines. It is
then cleaned to remove impurities like rocks, sticks, and other organic matter. The
clay is often mixed with water to achieve the right consistency and plasticity for
forming.
3. Shaping: There are various methods for shaping clay into brick forms
 Extrusion: In this method, the clay is passed through a machine called an extruder,
which pushes the clay through a die to create a continuous column of clay. This
column is then cut into individual brick-sized units.
 Molding: The clay can be shaped using molds. The clay is pressed into a mold and
then released to form the brick shape. Molds can be single or multiple units and may
have different patterns or textures on their surfaces.

4. Drying: The newly formed bricks are quite soft and contain a significant amount of
moisture. They are typically air-dried for a period of time, which can vary depending on the
weather and humidity levels. Proper drying is essential to prevent cracking during firing.
5.Firing: Firing is the process of subjecting the dried bricks to high temperatures in a kiln to
harden and strengthen them. The firing process involves several stages:
 Preheating: The temperature is gradually increased to remove any remaining moisture
and preheat the bricks.
 Firing: The temperature is raised to a level where chemical changes occur in the clay,
causing it to vitrify and become hard. This temperature is usually around 1000 to
1200°C (1832 to 2192°F).

6. Cooling and Unloading: After firing is complete and the bricks have cooled sufficiently,
they are removed from the kiln. Proper cooling is essential to prevent thermal stress and
cracking.
7. Sorting and Packaging: The bricks are sorted based on their quality, size, and appearance.
Any defective or substandard bricks are discarded. The remaining bricks are then packaged
for distribution and sale.
8. Optional Finishing: Depending on the intended use and aesthetic requirements, the bricks
can undergo additional processes like glazing, painting, or texturing.
It's worth noting that technological advancements have led to variations in the manufacturing
process. For instance, modern methods might involve automated machinery and computer-
controlled kilns to ensure consistency and quality.
Brick manufacturing has an environmental impact due to resource extraction, energy
consumption during firing, and waste generation. As a result, efforts are being made to
develop more sustainable practices, such as using alternative materials and optimizing firing
processes to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
2.5 SIZE OF BRICKS:
 In Bangladesh, the size of bricks can vary based on local practices and manufacturing
methods. However, the most common brick size used in Bangladesh is approximately
9.5 inches x 4.5 inches x 2.75 inches, which is equivalent to about 241 mm x 114mm
x 70 mm. This size is often referred to as the "Bangladeshi Standard Brick" or "BSB."

 Keep in mind that brick sizes can vary slightly depending on the specific
manufacturer and region within Bangladesh. If you're planning to use bricks for a
construction project, it's advisable to consult with local suppliers or construction
professionals to ensure you have accurate and up-to-date information on brick sizes in
your area.

2.6 USES OF BRICKS:

Bricks are extensively used in Bangladesh for various construction purposes due to their
affordability, durability, and ease of availability. Here are some common uses of bricks in
Bangladesh:
 Residential Construction: Bricks are widely used in the construction of residential
buildings, including houses and apartments. They are used to build walls, foundations,
and other structural components.
 Roads and Pavements: Bricks can be used to create durable and aesthetically pleasing
road surfaces and pavements. They are often used for pedestrian walkways and
pathways in parks.
 Public Infrastructure: Bricks are used for constructing various public infrastructure
projects like schools, hospitals, community centers and government buildings.

 Retaining Walls: Bricks are commonly used to build retaining walls that help prevent
soil erosion and provide structural support to sloped areas.

 Decorative Elements: Bricks can be used as decorative elements in architectural

designs. They can be employed to create intricate patterns, textures, and designs on
walls and facades.
 Fences and Boundaries: Bricks are often used to build fences, boundary walls, and
enclosures around properties for security and privacy.
 Infrastructure Development: Bricks are used in larger infrastructure projects such as
bridges, culverts, and embankments.
 Aggregate in Concrete: Brick chips can be used as a replacement or supplement for
traditional coarse aggregates in concrete mixtures. They can enhance the properties of
concrete, such as reducing the overall weight while maintaining strength.
 Subbase Material: Brick chips can be used as a subbase material in road construction
and pavement projects. They provide a stable foundation for the upper layers of the
pavement.
 Landscaping: Brick chips can be used in landscaping projects to create decorative
pathways, walkways, and driveways. They can add a rustic and charming look to
outdoor spaces.
 Erosion Control: In erosion-prone areas, brick chips can be used to stabilize the soil
and prevent erosion along slopes.
 Drainage: Brick chips can be used in drainage systems, such as French drains, to
facilitate water flow and prevent waterlogging.
2.7 ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF BRICKS
2.7.1 ADVANTAGES
Bricks have been used as a construction material for centuries and offer various advantages
due to their durability, versatility, and other properties. Here are some of the key advantages
of using bricks in construction:
 Durability: Bricks are known for their durability and can last for decades without
deteriorating significantly.
 Fire Resistance: Bricks are non-combustible and provide excellent fire resistance,
which enhances the safety of structures.
 Weather Resistance: Bricks can withstand various weather conditions, including rain,
wind, and sunlight, without deteriorating or losing their strength.
 Sound Insulation: Bricks have good sound insulation properties, reducing the
transmission of noise between rooms and from the outside.
 Low Maintenance: Bricks require minimal maintenance over their lifespan, saving on
repair and replacement costs.
 Load-Bearing Capacity: Bricks have high compressive strength and can support heavy
loads, making them suitable for load-bearing structures.
 Design Flexibility: Bricks can be used for various architectural styles, from traditional
to modern, offering design flexibility.
 Historical Value: The use of bricks has historical significance in many cultures,
connecting modern construction to traditional building practices.
 Non-Toxic: Bricks are environmentally friendly and do not emit harmful substances
into the air or soil.
 Stability: Brick structures provide stability and structural integrity, enhancing the
safety of occupants.
Overall, bricks offer a combination of strength, aesthetics, and environmental benefits that
make them a popular choice for a wide range of construction projects.

2.7.2 DISADVANTAGES
While bricks offer numerous advantages, they also come with some disadvantages
and considerations that need to be taken into account when using them in
construction. Here are some of the disadvantages of bricks:

 Weight: Bricks are heavy, which can impact construction time and labor. The
weight of bricks requires a strong foundation and structural support.
 Labor Intensive: Bricklaying is a labor-intensive process, which can increase
construction costs and time, especially for large projects.
  Limited Design Flexibility: While bricks come in various sizes and colors,
they might not offer the same design flexibility as other construction materials
like steel or glass. Complex architectural designs can be challenging to
achieve with bricks.
 Higher Initial Costs: The initial cost of using bricks can be higher compared to
some alternative construction materials, although this can be offset by their
durability and low maintenance over time.
 Cracking: Bricks are susceptible to cracking if not properly installed or if the
building settles over time. This might require maintenance and repairs.
 Seismic Vulnerability: In regions prone to earthquakes, bricks might not
provide the same level of seismic resistance as more flexible materials like
timber or reinforced concrete.
It's important to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages of bricks against the specific
requirements of your construction project. In many cases, using bricks strategically alongside
other construction materials can help mitigate some of these disadvantages while leveraging
their strengths.
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