Chapter 1 : Introduction to Engineering materials
Note - 7
Topic : Bricks and its classification
The term brick refers to small units of building material, often made from fired clay and
fixed in position by using mortar, a bonding agent comprising cement, sand, and water.
The standard brick size is used to construct a masonry wall that is relatively durable and
strong in nature.
*The standard Size of Brick in mm is 190 x 90 x 90 mm (Length x Width X Thickness)
Classification of Bricks Based on Quality
On the basis of quality, Bricks are of the following kinds:
1. First class bricks:
Specifications:
(1) Plain surface, sharp edges and size with tolerance in dimensions +-3%
(2) Uniform red or brownish colored.
(3) High crushing strength, not less than 10.7 N/mm2
(4) Machine moulded
(5) Efflorescence- NIL
(6) Water absorption less than 15%.
USE: They are used for the exterior wall brick works, short columns and arches.
2. Second class bricks:
Specifications:
(1) Slightly uneven faces and edges with tolerance in dimensions +-8%
(2) Uniform colored but may be slightly over burnt.
(3) High crushing strength, not less than 7 N/mm2
(4) Hand moulded
(5) Efflorescence- Little
(6) Water absorption less than 20%.
USE: They are used for internal walls and compound walls.
Chapter 1 : Introduction to Engineering materials
Note - 7
3. Third class bricks:
Specifications:
(1) May be distorted with blunt edges.
(2) Over burnt or under burnt and non uniform color.
(3) High crushing strength, not less than 3.5N/mm2
(4) Hand moulded
(5) Efflorescence- Large
(6) Water absorption less than 25%.
USES: They are used for flooring, paving, small brick foundations and brick bat lime
concrete(B.B.L.C.).
On the basis of the building process, Bricks are of following kinds:
Unburnt Bricks: These are half burnt bricks. The color is yellow. The strength is low.
They are used as surki in lime terracing. They are used as soiling under RCC footing or
basement. Such bricks should not be exposed to rainwater.
Burnt Bricks: Burnt bricks are made by burning them in the kiln. First class, Second
Class, Third Class bricks are burnt bricks.
Over Burnt or Jhama Brick: It is often known as the vitrified brick as it is fired at high
temperature and for a longer period of time than conventional bricks. As a result, the
shape is distorted. The absorption capacity is high. The strength is higher or equivalent
to first class bricks. It is used as lime concrete for the foundation. It is also used as
coarse aggregate in the concrete of slab and beam which will not come in contact with
water.