CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL

1. Course Description

This course provides trainees with knowledge and practical skills in the identification, selection, testing, and application of various construction materials. It emphasizes the properties, sources, handling, and suitability of materials used in building and civil engineering works.

2. Course Objectives

By the end of this course, the trainee should be able to:

  1. Identify various types of construction materials.

  2. Explain the properties and uses of different materials.

  3. Conduct simple field and laboratory tests on construction materials.

  4. Select appropriate materials for specific construction purposes.

  5. Apply proper handling, storage, and safety procedures.

3. Course Content Outline

Unit Topic Subtopics / Key Concepts
1 Introduction to Construction Materials Definition, classification, sources, importance, selection criteria
2 Soils and Aggregates Types of soils, soil classification, aggregates (fine & coarse), testing, grading, and applications
3 Cement and Lime Types of cement, composition, properties, hydration, storage, lime production, uses
4 Concrete Technology Constituents of concrete, mix ratios, batching, mixing, curing, testing (slump test, compressive strength)
5 Bricks, Blocks, and Tiles Manufacturing process, types, properties, quality tests, uses
6 Timber and Wood Products Types of wood, properties, defects, seasoning, preservation, uses
7 Metals in Construction Types (ferrous and non-ferrous), properties, uses, protection against corrosion
8 Bituminous Materials Types, properties, applications in roads and waterproofing
9 Paints and Finishing Materials Types, components, application methods, surface preparation
10 Sustainability and Environmental Considerations Green building materials, waste reduction, recycling in construction

4. Teaching and Learning Methods

  • Lectures and demonstrations

  • Field visits (quarries, factories, construction sites)

  • Practical sessions in materials lab

  • Group discussions and presentations

  • Use of multimedia and videos

5. Learning Resources

  • Samples of materials (cement, aggregates, bricks, metals, timber, etc.)

  • Construction materials laboratory

  • Standards (KEBS, ASTM, BS)

  • Reference books and manuals

6. Assessment Methods

Assessment Type Weight (%)
Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs) 20%
Practical Work / Lab Reports 30%
Final Theory Examination 30%
Project / Field Assignment 20%