Thesis (BS Architecture) -- University of the Philippines Mindanao, 2015

In the current trends of architectural practice, countless architectural materials have been developed to improve or minimize the cost of construction. The proponent identified the potential of waste paper as a partial substitute aggregate for sand in producing Interlocking Papercrete Blocks. Moreover, the interlocking mechanism of the blocks is designed by the proponent. Varying mixtures were made to come up with the most capable block that can be used as an alternative construction material. To determine its potential as a substitute aggregate, the mixtures were subjected to the following tests namely compressive strength test, water absorption test, and modified fire resistance test. The results dictate that IPB3 (50% sand; 50% paper pulp) exhibits the most capable features of a block that can be used for wall construction. Moreover, the block's restrictions as a construction material has been derived in this study. Product costing and comparison to other conventional construction materials such as CHB and ICEB were also performed in this study. It has been noted that IPB 3 is relatively cheaper than CHB and ICEB. Thus, paper pulp can be a potential substitute aggregate for sand in producing interlocking blocks that can be used for wall construction. It has also been found out that the source for paper pulp should be accessible to the production area of the blocks. It is then recommended that there should be other mixture variations for the production of IPBs, additional research on other possible aggregates, exploring other interlocking design mechanisms and developing a mechanized process in producing Interlocking Papercrete Blocks.