This study investigates thermal conductivity of cement-stabilised soil blocks (CSSBs) for varying mix proportions and fluctuating operating temperatures. CSSB comprises a compressed mix of soil, sand and cement, which determines its thermal conductivity. In real working conditions, building materials operate at varying temperatures, more evident in tropical regions. However, most studies report a single thermal conductivity value independent of its operating temperature. The varying mix proportions of CSSBs studied include three different clay contents, four different cement contents and three dry densities. The results reveal an increase in thermal conductivity in response to increasing clay content, cement content and densities of the blocks. An increase in cement content from 5 to 16% resulted in a 30·3% increase in thermal conductivity and a 100 kg/m3 increase in density yields nearly a 12·5% increase in thermal conductivity. Thermal conductivities of the blocks have also been tested at varying temperatures of 25, 35, 45, 55 and 65°C. An increase in temperature increases the thermal conductivity of the blocks. This paper examines and explains this variation in thermal conductivity and the performance of CSSBs in comparison with burnt clay bricks and concrete blocks.
The handloom sector constitutes a distinct feature of the rich cultural heritage of India and plays a vital role in the economy and cultural identity of the country. It is an ancient industry and is source of livelihood for many villages in India. Its spread varies in style, practice and scale throughout the country -in certain regions it is has a proficient industry, while in others its establishment is localized, where it is a family-based activity. While, hand-woven fabrics are well-sought after both nationally and globally, weavers currently remain marginalized and often impoverished. The well-set power loom industry has further added to their woes. Given the progressive failure of centralized production and distribution ideologies, handlooms represent a decentralized distributed means of livelihood security, environmental consonance, employment generation, skill enhancement, cultural (diversity, identity and) integrity and sustainability. The fabrics and dyes used in the handloom industry are environment-friendly and often unique to a region (based on available skill and resources). The paper comprehensively evaluates and forecasts sustainability in the context of traditional handlooms in India. Results of the study and recommendations are presented in this paper.
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