Low-cost Building Method
A Soheyl-type ram press for pressing interlocking cement blocks in a village of Lao PDR.
When U-blocks are lined together to form a horizontal structural beam, they create a floating foundation over which can rest hollow interlocking cement blocks, some of which are filled with mortar to serve as columns. Such a modular cost-effective construction method is easily replicable by rural communities which contribute the sand, pebbles and labour for their schools.
Novatech's prefab cement blocks
Rural factory under construction
Novatech's prefab roof trusses
In Lao PDR like many rural communities, wood is usually expensive and does not resist termites, which pose a challenge to the maintenance of buildings, namely of rural schools that must require low maintenance.
Locally-made school building using interlocking blocks: 3 classes of 40 seats, with administration
