Acceptability of Interlocking Soil Block Technology in Kenya’s Construction Industry

Abstract

Interlocking stabilized soil block (ISSB) is a technology that encourages utilization of locally available building resources. Desirable features of the ISSB technology include; aesthetic value, ease of construction and non-use of mortar. This study sought to determine the social acceptability of ISSB technology in the Kenyan construction industry. The study adopted a descriptive design using semi-structured interviews on two target groups: technology users and non-technology users. Sixteen technology users were purposively selected from recorded users in the Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure and Urban Development (Kenya). Conversely, sixteen non-technology users were sampled using the snowballing technique. The ISSB technology was found to be most useful in the construction of residential houses, perimeter fencing walls and partition walls. The level of acceptability of ISSB technology to users was found satisfactory. Perceived low performance and inadequate demonstration projects amongst non-users limited their willingness to use the technology. In order to mitigate against the challenges of durability, ISSB walls should be constructed on foundations built with natural stones, be protected against wind driven rain and encourage use of earth-based rendering. Users should adopt a combined system of constructing columns and ISSB masonry to enable block connectivity with fresh concrete and achieve wall plumbness. This paper recommends a deliberate campaign in the building industry to shift negative perceptions about the ISSB technology. Furthermore, clear standards prescribing workmanship and construction guidelines must be provided to users and the construction industry. Keywords—Interlocking soil block, Usability challenges, Standardization, Adoption index.