Development of Construction Materials from Volcanic Rock Fragments for Technology Transfer to Local Communities

Abstract

This research aims to develop the production process, ratios, physical properties, mechanical properties, and thermal insulation of construction materials made of volcanic rocks (basalt in Buriram province) as aggregates.  
Four of such construction materials including concrete, concrete block, interlocking block, and paving block were compared to the general construction materials. It is found that volcanic rocks - construction materials had production process and ratios as same as general construction materials. The physical and mechanical properties of volcanic
rocks - construction materials had density, strength, and thermal insulation lower than the general construction materials. While the water absorption of volcanic rocks -  construction materials were higher than general construction materials. However, all the volcanic rocks -  construction materials could meet the standard that could be used as same as the general construction materials. The research findings have been transferred and applied to the local communities for utilization.