SAB 2112 / SAM 3123 1

FINAL EXAMINATION
SEMESTER II, SESSION 2011/2012
COURSE CODE : SAB 2112 / SAM3123

COURSE : CIVIL ENGINEERING MATERIALS

PROGRAMME : SAW

DURATION : 2 HOURS

DATE : JUNE, 2012

INSTRUCTION TO CANDIDATES:
1. ANSWER FOUR (4) QUESTIONS

WARNING!
Students caught copying/cheating during the examination will be liable for
disciplinary actions and the faculty may recommend the student to be expelled from
the study.

This examination question consists of (3) printed pages only.

 SAB 2112 / SAM 3123 2

Q1. (a) Explain why cement is important in concrete mix? Describe the wet
process method in the manufacture of Portland cement.
(6 marks)

(b) What is meant by workability of fresh concrete? Discuss the

importance and effect of compaction and curing on strength and
durability of hardened concrete.
(9 marks)

(c) Many structural cracks were found on the columns and beams of a
reinforced concrete building. Discuss with illustration how the non-
destructive test can be used in relation to the problem.
(10 marks)
(25 marks)

Q2. (a) Explain with example the appropriate time to use chemical and
mineral or pozzolanic admixtures in concrete.
(6 marks)

(b) Discuss the properties of aggregates that will affect the workability and
strength of concrete.
(9 marks)

(c) Discuss and justify how the selection of concrete constituents will
affect the quality of hardened concrete used for offshore applications.
(10 marks)
(25 marks)
 SAB 2112 / SAM 3123 3

Q3. (a) Compare and contrast the properties and use of timber and steel in
construction.
(6 marks)

(b) Describe the important processes to be conducted in the preparation of

timber for structural application.
(9 marks)

(c) Discuss with illustration the structural and non-structural applications of

steel in construction.
(10 marks)
(25 marks)

Q4. (a) What is meant by masonry work? Explain with sketches the use of
masonry units in construction.
(6 marks)

(b) Describe two important consideration to be taken during the

manufacturing process of both engineering clay and mortar bricks so that
the required properties are achieved.
(9 marks)

(c) Discuss with example the use of glass, polymer composite and non-
ferrous metals in construction industry.
(10 marks)
(25 marks)