Researchers at Meru University of Science and Technology are pushing for adoption of cheaper soil stabilization technology for roads and buildings in rural areas.
The university’s Institute of Cement and Concrete (ICC) has developed low carbon clay based cement which is expected to cut the cost of building and construction by up to 40 percent.
According to Meru University low carbon cement and soil stabiliser lead researcher Joseph Mwiti, the products would also cut carbon emissions by 25 percent.
Speaking during the commissioning of a soil cement lab at Meru University on Wednesday, Dr Mwiti said the facility is aimed at supporting development of construction materials such as hydraulic road binders and soil hardeners.
”The soil stabilisers we are developing at the university can cut the cost of upgrading all weather roads by up to 40 percent. The binders made from clay cement will make roads durable,” Dr Mwiti said.
The University is also recommending the use of its soil stabilisers in building earth dams in arid and semi arid areas.
“We have developed soil hardeners that can reduce dust on all weather roads.
We can also use the same technology in building earth dams which can hold water for longer periods,” he said.
The researcher said the innovations could also help advance the affordable housing agenda through production of cheaper building blocks.
Dr Mwiti said they were in talks with national parks and game reserves in the country to use the soil stabilisers in improving roads as well as dams.
Meru University Vice Chancellor Prof Romanus Odhiambo said the products, which are already certified by Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) were ready for adoption in the industry.
”By commissioning Soil Cement lab, we are enhancing our collaboration with the industry and communities to advance development of more affordable construction materials,” Prof Odhiambo said.
