InsuBlock: Utilizing Rice Hull Ash (Oriza Sativa) and Coconut Fiber

(Cocos Nucifera Fiber) for better Compressive Strength

and Thermal Insulation in Concrete

Hollow Blocks

Frankie G. Tapang , Meri Aih Grace C. Espaldon , Novie Jane D. Rodrigo , Ian Jomart I. Alonzo

Crossing Bayabas National High School, Toril, Davao City, Philippines

ABSTRACT

The recent earthquakes in Mindanao, Philippines, have once again highlighted the vulnerability of

infrastructure. One major factor contributing to building damage is the poor performance of

construction materials. This study aims to modify and address the vulnerabilities of conventional

concrete hollow blocks (CHBs) in seismic-prone regions, particularly in Mindanao, Philippines. The

research introduces an innovative solution by incorporating coconut fiber and rice husk ash into

CHB design to enhance structural resilience and thermal comfort, crucial in a region where extreme

heat conditions are prevalent. The objective is to evaluate the feasibility of this modified CHB as a

sustainable and resilient building material for seismic-prone areas, while also improving thermal

insulation to mitigate the effects of intense heat. Methods involve fabricating a modified CHB mold

and creating variations of commercially available 6” CHBs: Control, 6” CHB with 5% replacement of

coconut fiber and rice hull ash (T1), and 6” CHB with 10% replacement of coconut fiber and rice

hull ash (T2). CHB with 10% replacement of coconut fiber and rice hull ash (T2) obtained the

highest compressive strength among the treatment groups with (938.00 psi) as well as superior

thermal insulation with a mean temperature of 36°C compared to 38.45°C observed in the

commercial CHB (control). Statistical analyses, including Descriptive Statistics, Kruskal-Wallis Test,

and Dunn Post-Hoc Test, will be applied to derive accurate and statistically significant findings from

the collected data.

Keywords: compressive strength, thermal insulation, hollow blocks, coconut fiber, rice hull ash
INTRODUCTION

Recent earthquakes in Davao del Sur, particularly those in July and October 2019,

demonstrated significant impacts on buildings and infrastructure (PHIVOLCS, 2019). These

earthquakes, with intensities reaching up to PEIS VII, caused widespread damage to structures,

affecting both poorly constructed and even some well-built buildings. Additionally, cracks were

observed in various structures. This includes concrete hollow block walls, which highlight inherent

vulnerabilities. Additionally, the occurrence of powerful earthquakes, notably the Magnitude 6.9

earthquake on December 15, 2019, in Davao del Sur, as reported by the Philippine Institute of

Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS, 2019), highlights the urgent need to enhance the quality

and durability of standard commercial hollow blocks utilized in construction. The significant

structural damage witnessed in buildings such as Evas Hotel in Kidapawan (Philippine News

Agency, 2019), coupled with another 6.5 magnitude earthquake on October 31, 2019 causing harm

to Ecoland 4000's Himeji and Osaka Buildings in Davao City (Mindanews, 2019), further suggests

that these buildings were constructed using conventional commercial hollow blocks (Arguillas,

2020). This underscores the critical necessity for advancements in building materials like hollow

blocks to mitigate the risk of similar structural failures in the future.

The poor quality of infrastructure makes the impact even worse (Manlupig & Aguilar, 2019).

Moreover, Davao City recently faced extreme heat conditions, with the heat index reaching 43

degrees Celsius on April 24, 2024 (Davao City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office,

2024). This highlights the complex environmental challenges in regions like Mindanao, where both

seismic activity and high temperatures require innovative construction solutions. In Mindanao,

where it can get scorching hot and earthquakes are frequent, finding building materials that can

handle both challenges is crucial. Regular concrete blocks aren't too great at staying strong during

earthquakes or keeping buildings cool when it's hot. Therefore, we need a smarter solution that can

deal with both issues together. So far, the changes people have made to regular concrete blocks

haven't been enough, especially in places like Mindanao where earthquakes are common.
Consequently, these changes haven't fully made buildings stronger or more comfortable during hot

weather.

Hollow blocks are widely used in modern architecture in this region, forming essential parts

of construction projects (Swiss Resource Centre and Consultancies for Development, 2017).

Despite their versatility, CHBs exhibit vulnerabilities in strength and resistance to harsh conditions,

necessitating innovation for better performance. Additionally, the addition of certain properties

improves the compressive strength and durability of concrete hollow blocks (CHBs), which are

essential construction materials. According to Transparency Market Research (2017), these blocks

are projected to reach a market of 2,769.24 billion units by 2027. Furthermore, Mindanao's frequent

earthquakes, due to numerous significant fault lines, pose ongoing challenges (Zuasola, 2023).

To address these challenges comprehensively, this research proposes a solution involving

innovative modifications to CHB design, incorporating coconut fiber for enhanced durability and rice

hull ash for improved thermal insulation. Coconut fiber, abundant in Southeast Asia, particularly the

Philippines, contributes to the durability of the modified hollow blocks due to its fibrous structure.

Coconut fiber acts as a reinforcement, enhancing structural integrity and regulating temperature,

contributing to thermal comfort (Bui, 2018). Simultaneously, the inclusion of rice hull ash, a

byproduct with pozzolanic properties, not only improves compressive strength but also enhances

overall durability by promoting pozzolanic reactions (Khedheyer Al-Alwan et al., 2022). In essence,

the combination of coconut fiber for durability and rice hull ash for thermal insulation provides a

solution to the limitations of conventional hollow blocks, offering enhanced structural resilience and

improved thermal performance. This innovative approach addresses the specific needs of regions

with challenging environmental conditions, such as Mindanao. The coconut fiber additive and the

rice hull ash with the proposed design were all formulated to produce a significantly better CHB,

which has higher compressive strength and better thermal insulation compared to the commercially

available CHB. The proposed solution aims to achieve higher compressive strength and better

thermal insulation compared to conventional CHBs. The goal of this research is to develop a CHB

design that addresses the vulnerabilities of conventional blocks and provides improved performance
in regions like Mindanao. It is hypothesized that incorporating coconut fiber and rice hull ash into

CHB design will result in higher compressive strength and better thermal insulation.

Furthermore, the community in Mindanao, construction companies, architects, engineers,

and policymakers involved in infrastructure development can benefit from the findings of this study.

This research is significant as it offers a solution to the challenges posed by earthquakes and

extreme heat in Mindanao, providing a more durable and thermally efficient building material. Safety

precautions and risk management strategies will be implemented throughout the research process

to ensure the safety of researchers and the community. Additionally, Interlocking Concrete Blocks

offer superior strength and efficiency in construction, exhibiting remarkable versatility for diverse

structures such as perimeter walls, warehouses, cottages, buildings, and more (Stoneadmin, 2018).

Each block boasts robust compaction strength exceeding 7 MPa, ensuring exceptional durability.

Moreover, the advantages extend beyond strength to encompass ease of production and

construction, making them accessible for use with unskilled labor after basic training. Therefore,

interlocking concrete hollow blocks underscore practical and advantageous features for a broad

spectrum of construction applications, further enhancing the viability of innovative solutions like

those proposed in this research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research progressed through three key phases: Phase I for Collection and Preparation

of Materials, Phase II for Experimental Set-Up, and Phase III for Testing of Treatments, and Phase

IV for Data Analysis. Each phase contributed sequentially to the study's progression, ensuring a

systematic approach from gathering materials to analyzing outcomes.

Phase I- Collection and Preparation of Materials

Collection of Coconut Fiber

The coconut fiber, popularly known as coir, was obtained for no cost from Cumi's Garden in

Toril, Davao City, Davao del Sur, while in accordance precisely to established methods. The fiber
was meticulously collected from the coconut's fibrous husk. Coconut shells were halved and retted

before being buried in damp soil to facilitate microbial decomposition to produce fibers. Following

that, the shells were pounded and rinsed to separate the coir fibers, with the hard inner layer

producing coconut shell activated carbon, which was commonly used in adsorbent filter media

(Hutten, 2007).

To ensure accuracy in its application as a concrete hollow block ingredient, samples of the Rice

Hull Ash were identified and validated by Noel P. Varquez, Agricultural technologist, at City

Agriculturist’s office in Toril District, Davao City on 22nd of March, 2024.

Collection of Rice Hull Ash

The rice hull ash was gathered near Gaisano Mall in Toril, Davao City, following a meticulous

collection process. It was obtained at no cost, and the ash was sourced in accordance with

established procedures. To eliminate impurities, a subsequent twenty-four-hour sun-drying phase

was employed to eradicate moisture and traces of organic matter. The collection and preparation

process aligned with the standards recommended by Geetha D, the corresponding author from the

Department of Physics at Annamalai University, Tamilnadu, India (2016).

To ensure accuracy in its application as a concrete hollow block ingredient, samples of the

Rice Hull Ash were identified and validated by Noel P. Varquez, Agricultural technologist, at City

Agriculturist’s office in Toril District, Davao City on 22nd of March, 2024.

Interlocking Molder

The interlocking molder for hollow blocks was purchased from an online shop called

Shopee. The design adhered to the specifications of interlocking hollow blocks, with dimensions of

16 inches in length, 6.5 inches in width, and 8.3 inches in height. The mold featured a Lego-like

structure, consisting of two holes in the middle, seven bumps on each side, and two spaces at the

bottom for interlocking purposes. These dimensions were based on the material model for hollow

blocks proposed by Stoneadmin (2018), emphasizing durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of

construction. This design offered advantages such as rapid assembly, significant cost savings, and

the ability to accommodate utility installations or insulation.

Figure 1. The modified CHB design with dimensions

According to Stoneadmin (2018), interlocking concrete building blocks were known for their

superior strength, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in construction. These blocks were versatile and

suitable for various structures, including perimeter walls, warehouses, cottages, and more. Each

block exhibited robust compaction strength exceeding 7 MPa, equivalent to 71.38 kilograms-force

per square centimeter (1,015.26 pounds per square inch), ensuring durability. The advantages

extended to ease of production and construction, making them accessible for use with unskilled

labor after basic training. Stoneadmin’s claims underscored the practical and advantageous

features of interlocking concrete hollow building blocks for a range of applications.

Mixing of Materials

The materials underwent meticulous mixing to attain the desired consistency of the concrete

blend at Rivas’ Sand and Gravel located in Purok 20, Kristina Homes, Toril, Davao City. As per the

guidelines provided by Noorsuhada et al. (2023), the concrete amalgam encompassed water,
cement, gravel, and sand. The advocated mix ratio stood at 1:2:3 (cement:sand:raw materials).

Water was gradually introduced into the mixture, stirred until an optimal consistency for pouring into

the mold was achieved.

Phase II- Experimental Set-up

Molding and Making of Sample Treatments

In this experimental investigation, the focus was on evaluating the effects of modifying

Construction Hollow Blocks (CHBs) by incorporating both coconut fiber aggregates and rice hull

ash. The experimental design included a control group comprising Commercial Hollow Blocks for

baseline comparison. The Modified CHBs with both Coconut Fiber Aggregates and Rice Hull Ash

represented the sole experimental condition, and this treatment was replicated ten times to ensure

robust statistical analysis. The dependent variables, comprising compressive strength and thermal

insulation, were measured for each replication. The experimental setup is summarized in the

following table:.

Table 1. The treatment and experimental groups with their corresponding samples in the study

Independent variable: Sample Dependent Variables

Experimental Groups

Control: Commercial Hollow Blocks (CHBs) 10 Compressive Strength and

Treatment 1 (T1): Modified CHBs, each with 5% 10 Thermal Insulation
replacement of coconut fiber and rice hull ash
Treatment 2 (T2): CHBs, each with 10%
10
replacement of coconut fiber and rice hull ash

Table 1 displays the treatment and experimental groups along with their respective samples.

The decision to use 10 replicates is based on established methods influenced by Ostertagova and
Ostertag's (2013) study. This choice aligns with the ANOVA requirement for an adequate number of

replicates, ensuring a solid foundation for rigorous statistical analyses.

Wet Curing

The specimens was stored at Rivas’ Sand and Gravel in Purok 20, Kristina Homes, Toril,

Davao City, following the method of Razali et al. (2017). This location provided a cool, dry

environment for seven days before the specimens underwent compressive strength and thermal

insulation tests. Wet curing was applied to fulfill the necessary curing requirements and promote

hydration for strength development.

Phase III- Testing of Treatments

Compressive Strength Test

In the examination of Construction Hollow Blocks (CHBs) for their construction suitability, a

crucial step involved subjecting them to a compressive strength test, as emphasized by Sarhat and

Sherwood (2014). The testing process was conducted by Megatesting Center Inc., at Purok 46,

Kapundok, 8000 Don Julian Rodriguez Sr. Ave, Talomo, Davao City, a specialized facility for

construction testing. This testing center strictly adhered to the regulations and standardized

procedures outlined by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) through ASTM

C140-Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units.

The procedure entailed using a compression machine to quantify the blocks' compressive strength

in pounds per square inch (psi). This meticulous testing approach ensured a comprehensive

evaluation of CHBs' ability to withstand compression, providing valuable insights into their suitability

for construction applications.

Thermal Insulation Test

Standard Testing Equipment

In addition to the comprehensive evaluations mentioned earlier, a crucial aspect of the

examination involved testing the thermal insulation properties of Construction Hollow Blocks (CHBs)

by authorized personnel. Recognizing the significance of thermal performance, this test aimed to

assess how well CHBs mitigated heat transfer and contributed to overall insulation. The testing

procedures followed the ASTM C518 standard, "Standard Test Method for Steady-State Thermal

Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus," ensuring a thorough

analysis of CHBs in terms of their ability to regulate temperature and enhance energy efficiency in

construction applications.

Alternative Testing Method using Blow Torch and Thermal Gun:

In situations where access to standard testing equipment was limited, a different approach

was utilized to evaluate the thermal insulation properties of CHBs. Following from the methodology

proposed by Stopforth and Adali (2014), this involved applying a blow torch to one side of the

hollow block to simulate heat exposure. Subsequently, temperature measurements were conducted

on the opposite side using a thermal gun by authorized personnel from Electrical Services at

Tugbok Gym. Measurements were documented every minute over a 15-minute period for each

block, with ambient temperature readings factored in to adjust for external influences. While

diverging from the ASTM standard, this method yielded valuable insights into the CHBs' thermal

insulation capabilities, presenting a practical alternative for assessing their suitability in construction

applications.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The global market's pursuit of a more economically viable Construction Hollow Block (CHB)

was driven by its widespread application and utility (MSME Development Institute, 2011).

Consequently, the crucial task of calculating the cost of raw materials and CHB components came

to the forefront. The unit costs for both the control CHBs and the optimized blocks were computed,

with the provided costs based on the prevailing prices of raw materials during the project's
execution. At that time, Holcim Portland Cement (HPC) was priced at ₱5 per kilogram, sand at

₱40.00 per bag, Rice Hull Ash at ₱20.00 per sack, and Coconut Fiber at ₱76.00 per sack

Phase IV- Data Analysis

Research Design

In the research design, a quasi-experimental framework was proposed to evaluate the

properties of hollow blocks (Villegas, 2023). By employing this methodology, we could effectively

compare the compressive strength and thermal insulation of Commercial Hollow Blocks (CHBs)

against Modified CHBs with Coconut Fiber Aggregates and Rice Husk Ash. Through careful

observation and comparison, while controlling for potential confounding factors, the study aimed to

provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of incorporating alternative materials into hollow

block production.

Statistical Analysis

Mean and Standard Deviation

Descriptive statistics including mean and standard deviation were calculated to analyze the

compressive strength and thermal insulation data.

Kruskal Wallis Test

To compare three or more independent groups and assess if significant differences existed

(Fein Et Al., 2022). This test was chosen due to its independence from normal distribution

assumptions and its ability to handle diverse data types and outliers (Scholtens Et Al., 2016). Its

application aided in determining disparities in compressive strength and thermal insulation among

the block types under investigation.

Dunn Post-Hoc Test:

 To identify particular group differences following a significant Kruskal-Wallis test result. It allowed

for accurate pairwise comparisons of treatments, showing which combinations of factors influenced

CHBs' performance (Soetewey, 2022)

Waste Disposal

In managing waste generated during the research, a systematic approach was adopted to

ensure environmental responsibility. Discarded coconut fiber, excess concrete mixture, and residual

rice husk ash were appropriately separated for recycling or disposal in designated waste

management facilities. This aligned with sustainable waste management practices, minimizing

environmental impact.

Risk and Safety

The research prioritized safety protocols throughout its various stages to mitigate potential

risks. Personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety goggles, and facemasks, was

consistently used during material collection, preparation, and testing. Additionally, the experimental

setup adhered to established standards to minimize the risk of injuries or mishaps. Safety

guidelines, as recommended by relevant regulatory bodies, were strictly followed to create a secure

research environment for all involved parties.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Compressive Strength

Table 2 illustrates the mean compressive strength values for the control and treatment groups.

Treatment 2 (T2), which consists of 10% coconut fiber and rice hull ash, had the highest mean

compressive strength at 938.000 psi. Treatment 1 (T1), comprising 5% coconut fiber and rice husk

ash, showed a mean compressive strength of 697.700 psi. In contrast, the control group had the

lowest mean compressive strength with only 165.700 psi. This significant increase in compressive
strength with higher proportions of coconut fiber and rice husk ash in T2 suggests a potential benefit

of these additives for enhancing concrete performance.

Table 2. Descriptive Statistics on Compressive Strength

Treatments Mean Std. Deviation

Compressive Control 165.700 55.538

Strength

Compressive Treatment 697.700 20.860

Strength 1

Compressive Treatment 938.000 71.539

Strength 2

Table 3 presents the results of the Kruskal-Wallis test for compressive strength values of the

control and treatment groups. The test statistic is 25.806 with 2 degrees of freedom, and the p-value

is less than 0.001, indicating a significant difference between the sample groups. This suggests that

varying proportions of coconut fiber and rice hull ash in the treatments lead to notable differences in

compressive strength.

Table 3. Kruskal-Wallis Test on Compressive Strength

Factor Statistic df p

Group 25.806 2 < .001

The compressive strength of concrete hollow blocks (CHBs) is influenced by two primary

factors: the design of the mold and the incorporation of coconut fiber and rice husk ash. The

redesigned CHBs utilize interlocking hollow blocks, which offer superior strength and efficiency in

construction (Stoneadmin, 2018). According to Stoneadmin (2018), these blocks are suitable for
diverse structures such as perimeter walls, warehouses, cottages, and residential buildings. They

also boast robust compaction strength exceeding 7 MPa, equivalent to 71.38 kgf/cm² (1,015.26 psi),

ensuring exceptional durability (Stoneadmin, 2018).

In addition to the design, the integration of coconut fiber and rice hull ash significantly enhances

the performance of the CHBs. Coconut fiber, a natural additive, improves compressive strength by

acting as a reinforcement agent within the concrete matrix, enhancing the binding of the concrete

mixture and controlling crack propagation (Paul et al., 2022). Additionally, coconut fiber offers

thermal insulation properties, which contribute to the overall durability of the blocks (Fabbri et al.,

2021). The natural hardening elements in these materials contribute to higher compressive strength

and a shorter hydration rate (Ganesan et al., 2008; Miranda et al., 2021; Wang et al., 2012).

Moreover, after conducting the compressive strength test, T1 (5% coconut fiber and rice hull

ash) showed some deep cracks but did not split, indicating resilience and durability. T2 (10%

coconut fiber and rice husk ash) exhibited shallow cracks and remained intact, reflecting superior

performance. In contrast, the commercial blocks split and sustained significant damage (Carig et al.,

2015). The use of these additives, in conjunction with the interlocking design of the hollow blocks,

provides notable benefits in terms of strength, efficiency, and versatility for various construction

applications.

Table 4. Dunn’s Post Hoc Comparisons for Compressive Strength

Comparison z p

Control - Treatment 1 -2.54 0.011

(5%) 0

Control - Treatment 2 -5.08 < .001

(10%) 0

Treatment 1 (5%) - -2.54 0.011

Treatment 2 (10%) 0
 Presented in Table 4 are the results of Dunn's Post Hoc Comparisons for Compressive

Strength. The analysis shows that all treatment groups are significantly different from the control

group at an alpha level of 0.05. Treatment 2 (T2) samples, which contain 10% coconut fiber and

rice hull ash, are significantly different from the control group at alpha 0.001, yielding a p-value of

<0.001. This indicates that the compressive strength of T2 samples is significantly higher than that

of the control group.

Additionally, the comparison between Treatment 1 (T1) samples, which contain 5% coconut

fiber and rice hull ash, and the control group also showed a significant difference at an alpha level

of 0.05, with a p-value of 0.011. This further supports the effectiveness of the coconut fiber and rice

husk ash additives in enhancing the compressive strength of concrete blocks.

Thermal Insulation

Table 6 presents the descriptive statistics for the mean block temperatures in hot weather for the

control group and treatments 1 and 2.

In hot weather, treatment 2 (10% coconut fiber and rice husk ash) showed the lowest mean

block temperature of 36.030°C, while the control group had the highest mean block temperature of

38.540°C. Treatment 1 (5% coconut fiber and rice husk ash) had a mean temperature of 36.200°C.

The lower mean temperatures in treatments 1 and 2 indicate improved thermal insulation compared

to the control group, suggesting that the addition of coconut fiber and rice husk ash enhances

thermal performance.

Treatments 1 and 2, with their respective proportions of coconut fiber and rice husk ash, provide

better thermal insulation than the control group. Treatment 2, in particular, shows the most

significant improvement in thermal insulation, highlighting the positive impact of higher percentages

of coconut fiber and rice husk ash on the thermal performance of the blocks.
Table 6. Descriptive Statistics on Thermal Insulation

Mean Block Hot

Control Treatment 1 Treatment 2

Valid 10 10 10

Mean 38.45°C 36.18°C 36.01°C

Std. Error of 0.108 0.04 0.14

Mean

Std. Deviation 0.358 0.13 0.04

Table 7 displays the results of the Kruskal-Wallis test conducted to evaluate thermal

insulation properties across different groups. The test yielded a statistic of 22.841 with 2 degrees of

freedom, and a p-value of less than 0.001, indicating a significant difference in thermal insulation

among the groups.

Table 7. Kruskal-Wallis Test on Thermal Insulation

Factor Statistic df p

Group 22.841 2 < .001

The thermal insulation of concrete hollow blocks (CHBs) is significantly influenced by the

incorporation of coconut fiber and rice husk ash. These natural materials improve the insulation
properties of the blocks by introducing porosity and fibrous content, which can trap air and reduce

heat transfer (Ganesan et al., 2018). This enhanced insulation helps maintain a more stable internal

temperature, making the blocks more energy-efficient.

The addition of rice husk ash to CHBs has been shown to improve the thermal performance of

concrete, reducing heat conductivity and providing better resistance to temperature changes

(Miranda et al., 2021). In treatments containing rice husk ash, CHBs exhibited improved thermal

insulation compared to control groups. This is in line with the findings from Carig et al. (2015),

where rice husk ash-treated CHBs showed better thermal resistance (Carig et al., 2015).

Moreover, the use of rice husk ash and coconut fiber as additives can help reduce the

environmental impact of concrete production by utilizing agricultural waste materials (Purohit, 2020).

The increased porosity and fibrous content in the concrete mixture contribute to the blocks' ability to

insulate against heat and maintain a cooler temperature within the structure (Raheem et al., 2021).

The inclusion of coconut fiber and rice husk ash in CHBs enhances thermal insulation and

contributes to energy-efficient and sustainable building practices. This can be particularly beneficial

in hot and tropical climates where thermal insulation is essential for comfortable indoor

environments (Al-Jabri et al., 2015).

Table 8. Dunn’s Post Hoc Comparisons for Thermal Insulation

Comparison z p

Control - Treatment 1 2.942 0.003

Control - Treatment 2 4.733 < .001

Treatment 1 - Treatment 1.791 0.073

2
 Table 8 presents Dunn’s Post Hoc Comparisons for Thermal Insulation. The analysis

demonstrates significant differences between the control group and Treatment 1 (z = 2.942, p =

0.003), as well as between the control group and Treatment 2 (z = 4.733, p < 0.001). Additionally, a

comparison between Treatment 1 and Treatment 2 shows a non-significant difference (z = 1.791, p

= 0.073).

These findings indicate that both Treatment 1 and Treatment 2 exhibit significant deviations

from the control group in terms of thermal insulation. Furthermore, Treatment 2 demonstrates a

notably higher level of thermal insulation compared to the control group, as evidenced by the

significantly lower p-value (<0.001).

Cost-Benefit Analysis

The study utilized the cost analysis method of Raheem, Momohi, and Aliu (2012) to

evaluate the cost-effectiveness of Concrete Hollow Blocks (CHBs), which are in high

demand globally (MSME Development Institute, 2011). Accurate assessment of the cost of

raw materials and CHB components is crucial due to their widespread usage. Unit costs for

both standard CHBs and optimized blocks were computed based on prevailing raw material

prices during the project. Currently, the price of one bag of ordinary Portland cement (OPC)

is ₱250.00, while one bag of sand costs ₱50, and one bag of gravel costs

COMMERCIAL CHB

RAW USED PER QUANTITY OF PRICES OF PRICE PER

MATERIALS HOLLOW HOLLOW RAW HOLLOW
BLOCK BLOCKS MATERIALS BLOCK

1 Sack of 1kg 50 ₱250 ₱5

Portland Cement
(50Kg)

2 Sacks of sand 2kg 50 ₱100 ₱2

(100kg)

4 Sacks of 4kg 50 ₱160 ₱3.2

 Gravel (200kg)

1 Gallon 0.076L / 76ml 50 ₱250 ₱5

Molasses (3.8L)

Cost of Labor per ₱4

Hollow Blocks

Total: ₱19.2

1 Sack of OPC Php 250

2 Sacks of Sand Php 100

4 Sacks of Gravel Php 160

1 Gallon Molasses Php 250

For the ordinary 6” CHB’s, ₱ 740 produced 50 blocks.

Cost of materials for producing 1 unit of commercial CHBs

₱ 15.20

Cost of labor

₱ 4.00

Total cost incurred in producing one unit of ordinary CHBs

₱19.2

MODIFIED CHB (InsuBlock) (Rice Hull ash 5%, Coconut Fiber 5%)

RAW MATERIALS USED PER QUANTITY OF PRICES OF PRICE PER

HOLLOW HOLLOW RAW HOLLOW
BLOCK BLOCKS MATERIALS BLOCK

1 Sack of Portland 1.67kg 30 ₱250 ₱8.33

Cement (50Kg)

2 Sacks of sand 3.34kg 30 ₱100 ₱3.33

(100kg)

4 Sacks of Gravel 6.67kg 30 ₱160 ₱5.33

(200kg)

1 Sack of Rice Hull 0.67kg 30 ₱20 ₱0.66

(20kg)

Coconut Fiber 0.5kg 30 ₱75 ₱2.5

 (15kg)

Cost of Labor per ₱4

Hollow Blocks

Total: ₱24.15.

1 Sack of Portland Php 250

Cement

2 Sack of Sand Php 100

4 Sack of Gravel Php 160

1 Sack Rice Hull Php 20

15kg Coconut Fiber Php 75

For the modified Interlocking 6” CHBs with Rice Hull ash 5%, Coconut Fiber %, ₱605 produced 30

blocks.

Cost of materials for producing 1 unit of Modified CHBs

₱ 20.15

Cost of labor

₱ 4.00

Total cost incurred in producing one unit of modified CHBs with (Rice Hull ash 5%, Coconut Fiber

5%)

₱24.1

MODIFIED CHB (InsuBlock) (Rice Hull ash 10%, Coconut Fiber 10%)

RAW MATERIALS USED PER QUANTITY OF PRICES OF PRICE PER

HOLLOW HOLLOW RAW HOLLOW
BLOCK BLOCKS MATERIALS BLOCK

1 Sack of Portland 1.67kg 30 ₱250 ₱8.33

Cement (50Kg)

2 Sacks of sand 3.34kg 30 ₱100 ₱3.33

(100kg)

4 Sacks of Gravel 6.67kg 30 ₱160 ₱5.33

(200kg)

2 Sack of Rice Hull 1.34kg 30 ₱40 ₱1.33

 (40kg)

Coconut Fiber 1kg 30 ₱150 ₱5

(30kg)

Cost of Labor per ₱4

Hollow Blocks

Total: 27.32

1 Sack of Portland Php 250

Cement

2 Sack of Sand Php 100

4 Sack of Gravel Php 160

1 Sack Rice Hull Php 40

15kg Coconut Fiber Php 75

For the modified Interlocking 6” CHBs Rice Hull ash 10%, Coconut Fiber 10% , ₱700 produced 30

blocks.

Cost of materials for producing 1 unit of Modified CHBs

₱ 23.32

Cost of labor

₱ 4.00

Total cost incurred in producing one unit of modified CHBs (Rice Hull ash 10%, Coconut Fiber 10%)

₱27.32

The modified interlocking 6" CHB incurs a total cost of ₱21.6, whereas an ordinary commercial

6" CHB costs ₱19.20, reflecting a ₱2.4 difference between the two types of blocks. The material

cost for the modified 6" CHBs amounts to ₱17.6, compared to the average cost of ₱18.00 for 6"

hollow blocks in the Philippines (Philconprices, 2018). These figures are based on the prevailing

material costs at the time of this project. Additionally, consultations with various hardware stores

and hollow block suppliers were conducted to validate the cost analysis
CONCLUSION

The incorporation of coconut fiber aggregates and rice hull ash significantly enhances the

compressive strength and thermal insulation properties of Construction Hollow Blocks (CHBs).

Treatment 2, with 10% coconut fiber and rice hull ash, showed the highest compressive strength

and the most improved thermal insulation. Despite a slight increase in production cost, the benefits

in structural integrity, energy efficiency, and sustainability justify the investment. Modified CHBs

present a viable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional commercial blocks for

construction applications.

Recommendation

To address the limitations identified in the study, the researchers should consider

adjusting the ratio of coconut fiber in the hollow block mixture, as the targeted 1015.26 psi

was not achieved in the current formulation. Collaborating with established testing facilities

for accurate thermal insulation assessments is also recommended. Additionally, further

research is needed to assess the performance of hollow blocks in varied climates. Exploring

alternative materials or design modifications could enhance their applicability beyond

tropical regions.

Acknowledgement

We express our heartfelt gratitude to our families for their unwavering support, providing the

bedrock upon which this research stands. We extend special thanks to Mr. Roland Rivas for his

invaluable guidance and to Mr. Alben Sagpang, our esteemed research adviser, for his mentorship

and expertise. In addition, we humbly acknowledge the grace of God, whose guidance and

blessings have illuminated our path and fueled our perseverance throughout this journey.

Furthermore, we are grateful to the Megatesting Center for their essential resources and to

Electrical Services for their technical support, both of which were indispensable in the execution of
our study. Their combined contributions, along with the divine providence, have been instrumental

in the success of our research endeavors, for which we are profoundly thankful.

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APPENDICES

Appendix A: Research Documentation Photos

Collection of Raw Materials

Experimental Set-Up
Group Discussion and Consultation

Identification of Raw Materials

Compressive Strength Test

Thermal Insulation Test

Appendix B. Authentication of Raw Materials
Appendix C. Consultant
Appendix D. Data from Compressive Strength Test

Control Group
Treatment 1
Treatment.2
Appendix D. Data from Thermal Insulation Test