Project Material Testing

Last Thursday, after loading the truck with various types of sand, stone, bricks and cement, I (Holly) headed to Cox’s Bazar (with a translator and a driver) to visit a government materials testing lab.  First stop was the bank, or rather banks.  Our first choice ATM was out of money (the security guard let me try for a while before informing me) and the second choice machine spit out my card, but we eventually found success downtown.  Armed with some cash, we headed to the lab.

(Local Government Engineering Department - Testing Lab. MCH Project Sample Materials)

(Concrete Cylinder testing device)

We sat and chatted about testing options with the lab rep for some time and filled out the necessary documents for sieve analysis and L.A. abrasion tests for the aggregate (sand and stone) and compression strength tests for the bricks and cement.  I also purchased some cylinders (for concrete samples during construction) and a slump bucket.  Part way through the meeting my translator asked me if I was the elder child and was amused when I said yes.  (Things are very relational here).  Apparently, he thought I was taking charge, which I took as a compliment (otherwise I would have been there all day!) What do you think about this Katie and Zach?

Jon and the Contractor used the new cylinders today to sample the proposed mixtures (cement/sand/stone) for 3,500 psi and 4,000 psi strength concrete which will be used on the remaining building structure after the 2,500 psi piles/pile caps are complete. 

(Testing various concrete mixtures to ensure proper material/mixture strengths)

Jon was also in Cox’s Bazar on Sunday to pick up Chris, a civil engineer from the US who has come for a week to help with the site plan (confirm finished floor elevation, drainage, grades and location of roads, etc.).  He has made great progress already and has a similar work ethic to Jon (ability to work a lot of hours) which is especially impressive after the long journey! 

(Taking elevation shots with our new level)

Holly