Thesis proposal – Optimising the Mix of Interlocking Bricks
Engineers Without Borders Sweden is a volunteer based and value driven organization Engineering for Humanity. For over 15 years, we have been driven by a single goal: build a sustainable future for communities around the world. With sustainability and long-term thinking as guidance, we mobilize our engineering expertise to provide innovative solutions empowering communities today and ensure their resilience tomorrow.
Background
EWB is partner of Build up Nepal (BUN), that was established following the 2015 earthquake in Kathmandu. BUN focuses on promoting compressed bricks made from a mixture of stone dust or soil, cement, and water. These bricks are produced using machines provided to small enterprises. Since its inception, BUN has supported over 300 small companies, contributing to the construction of more than 10,000 houses across Nepal. Their efforts have significantly reduced carbon emissions by 100,000 tonnes and created over 2,000 full-time jobs, with women making up a quarter of the workforce. Interlocking bricks, designed like LEGO blocks, are BUN's main product. These bricks are not only easy to assemble but are also earthquake-resistant, making them particularly suitable for construction in earthquake-prone regions like Nepal. Some illustrations:
About the position
In 2024, an exam work by Linn Bogren revealed that increasing the water content in the brick mix could significantly enhance strength due to improved workability. A specific change from 6% to 10% water content demonstrated a doubling of strength. In response, BUN has decided to set a new target mix of 8% water with 7% cement, down from the previous 10% cement. BUN has also begun retraining enterprises on this new method, which will be followed by continuous monitoring to ensure consistency. The key question is whether more water can be added to the mix while considering potential risks such as bricks breaking during production, alterations in surface texture and changes in other performance parameters. The compressive strength must be maintained at the target level with minimal variation. The ultimate objective is to reduce cement content further without compromising brick quality, primarily measured by compressive strength.
Conditions:
The scope can be adapted to be either a Master or a Bachelor thesis with one or two students.
Start: Spring 2025. Apply latest October 2024
Location: The work can be done in Nepal or in Sweden with preference for work in Kathmandu at BUN.
Questions?
We are reviewing applications continuously. For further information or questions please contact Ashish Maharjan, who is working for BUN in Kathmandu.
Contact can be taken with Linn Bogren who finished a study on brick strength optimisation based on water content and compression in 2024. Also take part of her Travel dairy.
You can also contact Henrik Gustavsson project manager for EWB BUN cooperation and Raine Isaksson Associate professor in Quality Management and EWB member working actively with BUN.
We look forward to your application!
Engineers Without Borders Sweden is promoting equality and inclusivity. We are strengthened by our differences. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply for the position, regardless of gender, age, ethnic background, religion, disability or sexual orientation. Selected applicants are expected to register as members to act as an EWB-SWE´s volunteer.
- Department
- International Development Projects
- Locations
- Nationellt
- Remote status
- Hybrid Remote
Join EWB-SWE
-
Volunteer
We have a passionate and experienced volunteer network of professionals and students who help make a difference and influence our work. Explore our volunteer opportunities and see how you can contribute with your range of skills, experience and knowledge directly into our activities. There is no requirement for an engineering degree, everyone is needed, and all are welcome. -
Be part of inspiring children
Sweden currently has a shortage of engineers, a profession that historically has been a very homogenous group. Because of this, EWB-SWE inform and inspire children to seek an education in engineering or technology. This is accomplished by assisting students with their studies, acting as role-models, and showing a non-conventional perspective on science, technology and engineering. -
Personal development
Develop your leadership and technology skills by participating in the seminars and activities we organize. -
Be part of our network
By getting involved, you become part of an extensive network of talented people. We are not just engineers - everyone is needed, and everyone is welcome! We are located all over Sweden with our groups in 8 different cities.
EWB-SWE's network
We have a passionate and experienced volunteer network of professionals and students who help make a difference and influence our work. We are engineers, architects, scientists, educators, healthcare professionals, administrators and many others.
You can be active in projects, in the business or passive support. We collaborate with technical colleges and universities, with organizations and the business community.
About Engineers Without Borders Sweden
Engineers Without Borders Sweden works to address challenges linked to the Sustainable Development Goals, both in Sweden and around the globe. Through improvements in education, equality, energy poverty and access to water and sanitation we always strive to make a sustainable and long-term impact with our work, for local communities and the Earth as a whole.
Thesis proposal – Optimising the Mix of Interlocking Bricks
Loading application form
Already working at Engineers Without Borders Sweden?
Let’s recruit together and find your next colleague.