Jobs Kenya

Job Field: Sector in Science

  • Consultant-Material Testing: Suitability and Sustainability of Recycled Plastic as a Building Material

    Consultant-Material Testing: Suitability and Sustainability of Recycled Plastic as a Building Material

    Scope of Work
    The scope of the assignment includes:

    Selection of Recycled Plastics: Commonly available building materials with recycled plastic content will be selected from participating companies.
    Testing Parameters: Conduct a comprehensive series of tests to evaluate the mechanical strength, durability, thermal properties, fire resistance, and environmental impacts of the recycled plastics.
    Comparison with Traditional Building Materials: Compare the test results of recycled plastics with conventional building materials, such as concrete, steel, and wood, to assess their performance and potential advantages.

    Testing Methods
    Material properties: assessment of physical and mechanical properties of recycled plastic as building materials including but not limited to the following:

    Tensile Strength Test: Measure the tensile strength and elasticity of the recycled plastic samples using a universal testing machine.
    Flexural Strength Test: Evaluate the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the recycled plastic specimens.
    Impact Resistance Test: Assess the impact resistance of the recycled plastics to determine their ability to withstand sudden loads.
    Water Absorption Test: Measure the water absorption capacity of the recycled plastics to evaluate their resistance to water ingress and potential degradation.
    Fire Resistance Test: Conduct fire resistance tests to assess the combustibility and flame spread characteristics of the recycled plastics.
    Durability: Assessing durability including but not limited to resistance to weathering and degradation under UV light.
    Thermal conductivity: determine the thermal conductivity of recycled plastic materials to understand their insulation properties.
    Environmental Impact Analysis: Perform a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the overall environmental impact of using recycled plastics as building materials.
    Safety: The potential health and safety hazards associated with using recycled waste plastic as a construction material including but not limited to flammability, toxicity, and chemical reactions/emissions
    Identification of appropriate safe handling procedures including but not limited to personal protective equipment during the collection, sorting, recycling, installation, and disposal.

    Test Specimens:

    Prepare standardized test specimens of recycled plastics in accordance with relevant international standards. Ensure that the samples are representative of the commonly available recycled plastics in the market. The specimens will be collected from partnering companies and will mainly focus on roofing sheets, walling system (column, beam and blocks and paving blocks.

    Testing Procedures

    Follow established testing procedures and relevant international standards for each test method. Ensure that testing is conducted in a controlled environment to obtain accurate and reliable results.

    Data Collection and Analysis

    Record all test data and observations meticulously. Analyze the results to determine the mechanical, physical, and environmental properties of the recycled plastics. Compare the performance of recycled plastics with traditional building materials.

    Conclusion & Recommendations

    Summarize the findings of the material testing and assess the overall suitability of recycled plastics as building materials. Highlight the advantages, limitations, and potential applications of recycled plastics in the construction industry. Based on the test results, provide recommendations for the responsible use of recycled plastics in building projects and suggest possible areas for further research and improvement.

    Deliverables
    Expected deliverables include,

    Detailed final study report
    A summary of the findings
    A comprehensive Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for building materials made from recycled plastic waste.
    A detailed final study report with recommendations for application of recycled plastic waste as a building material.

    Timeline

    Provide an estimated timeline for completing the material testing and provide a budget for the resources required for the successful execution of the study. The selected firm will work collaboratively with HFHI staff throughout all stages of the work and shall hold regular progress update meetings.

    It is expected that the selected firm will begin work by October 1st, 2023, with a completion date of January 31st, 2024.
    Key Competencies
    Only firms meeting the following are eligibility will be considered:

    Demonstrated experience in material testing.
    Knowledge of the Kenya’s construction industry desirable
    Technical knowledge of building standards and environmental assessment
    Strong technical knowledge and expertise of the plastics and recycling process

    SubmissionInterested parties should submit the following:Interested firms are requested to submit their proposal no later than September 30, 2023, to AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org with the subject “RECYCLED PLASTIC ASSESSMENT”.Questions and clarifications about this Terms of Reference should be sent to AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org and copied to jsimwero@habitat.org to by 20th Sep 2023.

    Apply via :

    AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org

  • GBV Volunteer – Maralal

    GBV Volunteer – Maralal

    Job Description

    The GBV Prevention Volunteer will be responsible for provision of psychosocial first aid support to GBV survivors & persons at risk. She will ensure complete care and treatment of GBV survivors through referrals to Case Workers for further case management. The position holder will support the WPE case workers in provision of psychosocial support and awareness raising activities which will be integrated with rights awareness sessions, PSEA, containment measures and any other general protection concerns. She will facilitate group therapy sessions, Girl Shine curriculums and School health clubs.

    Key Responsibilities:
    PSYCHOSOCIAL FIRST AID

    Provide professional and confidential services to survivors of GBV, grounded in the IRC’s holistic, survivor-centered case management approach.
    Document client data accurately in the intake forms and consent forms and ensure they are under lock and key.
    Ensure all work with SGBV survivors is confidential and that ethical practices are observed.
    Participate in preparation of all relevant reports regarding the IRC’s psychosocial and outreach activities.
    Mapping referral networks between partners implementing GBV.

    COORDINATION AND NETWORKING

    Maintain and strengthen existing networks through other service providers at the community level, to ensure that survivors receive quality services and support both at the agency levels.
    Participate in capacity building training for the local partner’s around psychosocial support.
    Strengthen and maintain networks with community leaders, women leaders, and service providers to ensure that survivors receive compassionate support from the community and to encourage greater communication, collaboration, and coordination among partners (protection, health, legal, and psychosocial sectors)
    Identify new community structures to work with to ensure wholesome support to the clients.

    COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH

    Conduct sensitization, dialogue and mediation sessions with the wider population about GBV related issues.
    Identify and strengthen Community structures through engaging community leaders, county govt and other stakeholders to ensure that the women & girls receive adequate support at the community level.
    Support in the dissemination of relevant information during Community SGBV prevention forums and meetings.

    MONITORING &DOCUMENTATION

    Document all activities: Meetings, Trainings, and events, Field monitoring etc using appropriate documentation and reporting tools in the sector as required and ensure that all documents/data collected is properly and safely filed and stored.
    Actively plan and submit weekly and monthly work plans and progress reports against set work plans using agreed reporting tools.
    Develop, print, and distribute IEC materials on behavioral change and awareness aspects.
    Prepare and share weekly and monthly reports as required.

    Others

    Fulfil any other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
    Respect the code of conduct and policies of the IRC and the standards of the GBV team.
    Adhere and uphold the IRC Way (integrity, Service and Accountability) at the respective areas of work.

    Key Result Areas

    The GBV/WPE Kenya Programs’ goal is to enhance survivors’ utilization of quality services responsive to their needs and strengthen community-based structures and solutions to better protect women and girls, promote their empowerment to access opportunities, services, and support.

    Qualifications

    Certificate/Diploma in counseling and/or psychology, community development, gender studies or any social science.
    Experience in psychosocial counseling, working with survivors of violence preferred.
    Clear understanding of gender, abuse of power, and issues surrounding violence against women
    Able to identify different forms of GBV.
    Highly motivated, creative, and compassionate person who is dedicated to ensuring that models of best practice are utilized.   
    Able to uphold high ethical and professional standards.
    Able to always maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and respect for clients.
    Problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
    Ability to promote the values of equality, non-discrimination, and human rights for all.
    Experience in participatory techniques and community mobilization
    Positive, highly motivated, innovative, with strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
    Able to coordinate multiple tasks while maintaining attention to quality and detail. 
    Able to work as part of a team.
    Strong knowledge of computer applications, including MS Word and Excel.
    Willingness to work in a hardship area.
    Ability to Speak the Maa Language.
    Fluency in English, including writing clear and concise reports.

    Apply via :

    rescue.csod.com

  • Consultant-Material Testing: Suitability and Sustainability of Recycled Plastic as a Building Material

    Consultant-Material Testing: Suitability and Sustainability of Recycled Plastic as a Building Material

    Scope of Work

    The scope of the assignment includes:

    Selection of Recycled Plastics: Commonly available building materials with recycled plastic content will be selected from participating companies.
    Testing Parameters: Conduct a comprehensive series of tests to evaluate the mechanical strength, durability, thermal properties, fire resistance, and environmental impacts of the recycled plastics.
    Comparison with Traditional Building Materials: Compare the test results of recycled plastics with conventional building materials, such as concrete, steel, and wood, to assess their performance and potential advantages.

    Testing Methods

    Material properties: assessment of physical and mechanical properties of recycled plastic as building materials including but not limited to the following:

    Tensile Strength Test: Measure the tensile strength and elasticity of the recycled plastic samples using a universal testing machine.
    Flexural Strength Test: Evaluate the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the recycled plastic specimens.
    Impact Resistance Test: Assess the impact resistance of the recycled plastics to determine their ability to withstand sudden loads.
    Water Absorption Test: Measure the water absorption capacity of the recycled plastics to evaluate their resistance to water ingress and potential degradation.
    Fire Resistance Test: Conduct fire resistance tests to assess the combustibility and flame spread characteristics of the recycled plastics.
    Durability: Assessing durability including but not limited to resistance to weathering and degradation under UV light.
    Thermal conductivity: determine the thermal conductivity of recycled plastic materials to understand their insulation properties.
    Environmental Impact Analysis: Perform a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the overall environmental impact of using recycled plastics as building materials.
    Safety: The potential health and safety hazards associated with using recycled waste plastic as a construction material including but not limited to flammability, toxicity, and chemical reactions/emissions
    Identification of appropriate safe handling procedures including but not limited to personal protective equipment during the collection, sorting, recycling, installation, and disposal.

    Test Specimens:

    Prepare standardized test specimens of recycled plastics in accordance with relevant international standards. Ensure that the samples are representative of the commonly available recycled plastics in the market. The specimens will be collected from partnering companies and will mainly focus on roofing sheets, walling system (column, beam and blocks and paving blocks.

    Testing Procedures

    Follow established testing procedures and relevant international standards for each test method. Ensure that testing is conducted in a controlled environment to obtain accurate and reliable results.

    Data Collection and Analysis

    Record all test data and observations meticulously. Analyze the results to determine the mechanical, physical, and environmental properties of the recycled plastics. Compare the performance of recycled plastics with traditional building materials.

    Conclusion & Recommendations

    Summarize the findings of the material testing and assess the overall suitability of recycled plastics as building materials. Highlight the advantages, limitations, and potential applications of recycled plastics in the construction industry. Based on the test results, provide recommendations for the responsible use of recycled plastics in building projects and suggest possible areas for further research and improvement.

    Deliverables

    Expected deliverables include,

    Detailed final study report
    A summary of the findings
    A comprehensive Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for building materials made from recycled plastic waste.
    A detailed final study report with recommendations for application of recycled plastic waste as a building material.

    Timeline

    Provide an estimated timeline for completing the material testing and provide a budget for the resources required for the successful execution of the study. The selected firm will work collaboratively with HFHI staff throughout all stages of the work and shall hold regular progress update meetings.

    It is expected that the selected firm will begin work by October 1st, 2023, with a completion date of January 31st, 2024.

    Key Competencies

    Only firms meeting the following are eligibility will be considered:

    Demonstrated experience in material testing.
    Knowledge of the Kenya’s construction industry desirable
    Technical knowledge of building standards and environmental assessment
    Strong technical knowledge and expertise of the plastics and recycling process

    SubmissionInterested parties should submit the following:Interested firms are requested to submit their proposal no later than September 30, 2023, to AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org with the subject “RECYCLED PLASTIC ASSESSMENT”.Questions and clarifications about this Terms of Reference should be sent to AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org and copied to jsimwero@habitat.org to by 20th Sep 2023.

    Apply via :

    AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org

  • GBV Volunteer – Maralal

    GBV Volunteer – Maralal

    Job Description

    The GBV Prevention Volunteer will be responsible for provision of psychosocial first aid support to GBV survivors & persons at risk. She will ensure complete care and treatment of GBV survivors through referrals to Case Workers for further case management. The position holder will support the WPE case workers in provision of psychosocial support and awareness raising activities which will be integrated with rights awareness sessions, PSEA, containment measures and any other general protection concerns. She will facilitate group therapy sessions, Girl Shine curriculums and School health clubs.

    Key Responsibilities:

    PSYCHOSOCIAL FIRST AID

    Provide professional and confidential services to survivors of GBV, grounded in the IRC’s holistic, survivor-centered case management approach.
    Document client data accurately in the intake forms and consent forms and ensure they are under lock and key.
    Ensure all work with SGBV survivors is confidential and that ethical practices are observed.
    Participate in preparation of all relevant reports regarding the IRC’s psychosocial and outreach activities.
    Mapping referral networks between partners implementing GBV.

    COORDINATION AND NETWORKING

    Maintain and strengthen existing networks through other service providers at the community level, to ensure that survivors receive quality services and support both at the agency levels.
    Participate in capacity building training for the local partner’s around psychosocial support.
    Strengthen and maintain networks with community leaders, women leaders, and service providers to ensure that survivors receive compassionate support from the community and to encourage greater communication, collaboration, and coordination among partners (protection, health, legal, and psychosocial sectors)
    Identify new community structures to work with to ensure wholesome support to the clients.

    COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH

    Conduct sensitization, dialogue and mediation sessions with the wider population about GBV related issues.
    Identify and strengthen Community structures through engaging community leaders, county govt and other stakeholders to ensure that the women & girls receive adequate support at the community level.
    Support in the dissemination of relevant information during Community SGBV prevention forums and meetings.

    MONITORING &DOCUMENTATION

    Document all activities: Meetings, Trainings, and events, Field monitoring etc using appropriate documentation and reporting tools in the sector as required and ensure that all documents/data collected is properly and safely filed and stored.
    Actively plan and submit weekly and monthly work plans and progress reports against set work plans using agreed reporting tools.
    Develop, print, and distribute IEC materials on behavioral change and awareness aspects.
    Prepare and share weekly and monthly reports as required.

    Others

    Fulfil any other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
    Respect the code of conduct and policies of the IRC and the standards of the GBV team.
    Adhere and uphold the IRC Way (integrity, Service and Accountability) at the respective areas of work.

    Key Result Areas

    The GBV/WPE Kenya Programs’ goal is to enhance survivors’ utilization of quality services responsive to their needs and strengthen community-based structures and solutions to better protect women and girls, promote their empowerment to access opportunities, services, and support.

    Qualifications

    Certificate/Diploma in counseling and/or psychology, community development, gender studies or any social science.
    Experience in psychosocial counseling, working with survivors of violence preferred.
    Clear understanding of gender, abuse of power, and issues surrounding violence against women
    Able to identify different forms of GBV.
    Highly motivated, creative, and compassionate person who is dedicated to ensuring that models of best practice are utilized.   
    Able to uphold high ethical and professional standards.
    Able to always maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and respect for clients.
    Problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
    Ability to promote the values of equality, non-discrimination, and human rights for all.
    Experience in participatory techniques and community mobilization
    Positive, highly motivated, innovative, with strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
    Able to coordinate multiple tasks while maintaining attention to quality and detail. 
    Able to work as part of a team.
    Strong knowledge of computer applications, including MS Word and Excel.
    Willingness to work in a hardship area.
    Ability to Speak the Maa Language.
    Fluency in English, including writing clear and concise reports.

    Apply via :

    rescue.csod.com

  • Laboratory Analyst Geologist

    Laboratory Analyst Geologist

    The laboratory analyst will be responsible for coordination of technical activities in the LC3-TRC Africa projects by ensuring that all testwork are done as scheduled.

    Key duties and responsibilities:

    Carrying out hands-on testing of cement and concrete.
    Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment
    Ordering and maintaining a record of supplies, tools, and materials
    Documenting and compiling measurement results
    Promoting safe working environment in the laboratory.
    Preparation of laboratory reports.

    Required Qualifications

    Must have a minimum of Master’s degree in Chemistry/ Material science or its equivalent from an accredited and recognized institution.
    A certificate course on Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) or equivalent short courses on cement technology will be added advantage.
    The laboratory analyst will be responsible for coordination of field and technical activities in the LC3-TRC Africa projects by ensuring that all testwork are done as scheduled.

    go to method of application »

    Applicants are required to submit all the minimum required documents to the E-mail: materialsproject@must.ac.keFurther, applicants are required to indicate the contacts (email and telephone) for three referees in their C.V. Applications should be submitted by 17th August, 2023 at 1:00 pm EAT. ONLY shortlisted candidates will be contacted.For enquiries, please contact Dr. Joseph Mwiti Marangu, Email: jmarangu@must.ac.keApplications to be addressed to;Project Co-ordinatorLC3-TRC AfricaMeru University of Science & Technology, KenyaP.O. Box, 972-60200, Meru-Kenya

    Apply via :

    materialsproject@must.ac.ke

  • Automation & Digital Technologies Manager Future Technology Manager

    Automation & Digital Technologies Manager Future Technology Manager

    Job Purpose

    The Automation & Digital Technologies Manager oversees the identification, testing and introduction of new technologies and automation of current manual processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

    Key Responsibilities:

    Keeps abreast with all new technologies in the Tea Industry.
    Carry out pilot scale and factory trials for new technology platforms.
    Develop an automation and digital transformation strategy and support the development of new Tea Technologies.
    Read and understand the most recent technical advancements such as big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning, the internet of things and connect them to the organization’s actual processes and infrastructures.
    Develops new digital processes and products for the organization, improves and optimizes existing innovation processes for improved quality and process efficiencies.
    Produces market research samples for evaluation by the organization’s Sales Team.
    Delivering Technical transfer documentation / Toolbox data and provide inputs to core design Developing consumer understanding to enable process and product delivery of consumer relevant attributes.
    Working with external suppliers/Open Innovation partners to develop solutions and ensure on-time in full delivery of innovation projects.
    Interfacing cross functionally (e.g., Supply Chain; Brand and Procurement) to design and implement new products and processes.
    Supervises new process technology evaluations and scale up from idea phase, through pilot plant to commercial plant.
    Providing technical recommendations and information to plant and business management regarding process and equipment capabilities and limitations, including both identification of bottlenecks and opportunities for improvement.
    Leads continuous improvement Practices and training of teams on the relevant technologies.

    Minimum Requirements:

    Education, Experience & Competences

    Degree in Sciences, Food science & Technology, Computer Science, Information Technology, or an Engineering Field.
    A minimum of 5 years’ experience working in production, Research, Automation and Digital Technologies.
    Has the ability to work with and influence cross functional teams.
    Enthusiastic, pro-active, analytical, open-minded, curious, and hands-on approach.

    go to method of application »

    Use the link(s) below to apply on company website.  

    Apply via :

  • Research Officer I

    Research Officer I

    Overall Purpose of the Job
    Handling the following research activities:

    Virus isolation, Arboviruses Surveillance.
    Molecular identification of DNA pathogens from ticks.
    ISFVs colony maintenance in the insectary.
    Conduct ISFV superinfection experiments.

    Specific Duties

     Cell culture maintenance and virus isolation in C6/36 (from Aedes albopictus), Sua 5b (from
    Anopheles gambiae) and Vero cells from monkey kidney.

    Tissue culture both in vivo and in vitro

     Superinfection (re-infecting mosquitoes that are already infected with ISFVs)
     Micro-injection (genetics to deliver genetic material, such as DNA or RNA, into cells or organisms)
     Mosquito rearing in the insectary.
     RNA and DNA extraction from target samples (Ticks and Mosquitoes) and quantification by
    nanodrop.
     Mosquito and tick sample collection from the field sites – Identification of target arthropods
    (mosquito)

    Molecular Screening by PCR

     Introduction of already cultured Anopheles flavivirus and Wesselsbron virus into Microsporidia
    MB-positive and -negative Sua S1 cell lines individually in different flasks.
     Support tick-borne pathogen screening and potentially culture

    Fieldwork:

     Support Fieldwork and PREPARE4VBD activities as requested.

    Requirements/Qualifications

     Bachelor of Science in Microbiology or a relevant area.
     At least 2 years of work experience in a research laboratory.
     Laboratory safety courses.
     Experience in mosquito homogenization and virus isolation.
     Experience in molecular testing of viruses.
     Experience in molecular detection of pathogens through PCR.
     Experience in Microsporidia isolation through cell culture.
     Experience working with the team to meet project objectives.

    Other Desirable Attributes

     Support and lead manuscript preparation as appropriate.
     Maintain oversight on necessary project supplies.
     Ability to make decisions within the area of work. Consults the supervisor.

    Reporting

    This position reports to the Head of the Molecular Biology and Biosystematics Unit

    Applications will be accepted up to 18th July 2023.Interested applicants should submit: (a) a confidential cover letter; (b) detailed CV with names and addresses of 3 referees, including e-mail addresses; and (c) a statement illustrating suitability against the listed qualifications/competencies/abilities, and skills.Candidates are required to apply online through: http://recruit.icipe.org or by Email: recruitment@icipe.org

    Apply via :

    recruitment@icipe.org

  • ILRI MSc Graduate Fellowship: Cross-sectional Study of Haemoparasites in Dairy Calves in Nandi County ILRI MSc Graduate Fellowship: Cross-sectional Study of Abortions in Dairy Cattle in Nandi County

    ILRI MSc Graduate Fellowship: Cross-sectional Study of Haemoparasites in Dairy Calves in Nandi County ILRI MSc Graduate Fellowship: Cross-sectional Study of Abortions in Dairy Cattle in Nandi County

    About the position

    The dairy industry is an emerging sector of the livestock industry in many lower and middle-income countries (LMICs) particularly in Africa. Structured dairy cattle breeding programs, such as the African Dairy Genetic Gains (ADGG) project, are currently being implemented for improved performance and production. The ADGG program aims to assist farmers to improve cow management, improve animal and herd productivity as well as increasing income for smallholder dairy farmers.
    The African Dairy Genetic Gains (ADGG) project reports ~40% calf mortality in its dairy cross-bred populations. In a previous longitudinal non-dairy calf cohort in Western Kenya known as the Infectious Diseases of East African Livestock (IDEAL) study, we observed a 16% overall calf mortality in the first year of life and a 13% mortality due to infectious diseases driven mainly by tick borne haemaparasites and gut nematodes/endoparasites.  This is the proposed focus of this study.
    There are a number of haemoparasitic infections that are hugely impactful for calf mortality and morbidity in Kenya in the non-dairy sector but the picture is currently unclear in the ADGG herds. These include T. parva (East Coast Fever), Babesia spp., Anaplasma spp., Erlichia spp. and Trypanosoma spp., In order to address this major challenge for dairy producers and to reduce both the direct losses from mortality and retarded growth as well as the indirect loss of genetic potential, the research proposes to conduct a longitudinal study of mortality and morbidity in calves. This will generate the disease and infection phenotypes that can then be linked to the ADGG genotypes to deliver genomic tools to develop resistance/tolerance to tropical diseases.
    The successful MSc fellow will conduct the baseline cross-sectional study to the determine the prevalence of haemoparasites in dairy calves in Nandi County, Kenya.

    Responsibilities of the fellow:

    Recruitment of dairy farmers to participate in the baseline cross-sectional study.
    Collect survey data using ODK.
    Collect samples from calves.
    Run serological and molecular tests for haemoparasites.
    Conduct statistical analysis of data using appropriate methods.
    Preparation of research proposal and thesis for purposes of academic attainment.

    Minimum requirements

    The ideal candidate should:

    Hold a Bachelor of Science preferably in veterinary science, biomedical or laboratory science.
    Be enrolled in Master of Science program with a speciality in parasitology, pathology or laboratory methods in a recognized university.
    Possess field experience collecting samples from animals, collecting survey data, working in multidisciplinary teams
    Have working experience using ODK.
    Demonstrated laboratory experience in use of microscopy, PCR, undertaking serology analysis such as ELISA

    go to method of application »

    Use the link(s) below to apply on company website.  

    Apply via :

  • Consultant-Material Testing: Suitability and Sustainability of Recycled Plastic as a Building Material

    Consultant-Material Testing: Suitability and Sustainability of Recycled Plastic as a Building Material

    Scope of Work

    The scope of the assignment includes:

    Selection of Recycled Plastics: Commonly available building materials with recycled plastic content will be selected from participating companies.
    Testing Parameters: Conduct a comprehensive series of tests to evaluate the mechanical strength, durability, thermal properties, fire resistance, and environmental impacts of the recycled plastics.
    Comparison with Traditional Building Materials: Compare the test results of recycled plastics with conventional building materials, such as concrete, steel, and wood, to assess their performance and potential advantages.

    Testing Methods

    Material properties: assessment of physical and mechanical properties of recycled plastic as building materials including but not limited to the following:

    Tensile Strength Test: Measure the tensile strength and elasticity of the recycled plastic samples using a universal testing machine.
    Flexural Strength Test: Evaluate the flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of the recycled plastic specimens.
    Impact Resistance Test: Assess the impact resistance of the recycled plastics to determine their ability to withstand sudden loads.
    Water Absorption Test: Measure the water absorption capacity of the recycled plastics to evaluate their resistance to water ingress and potential degradation.
    Fire Resistance Test: Conduct fire resistance tests to assess the combustibility and flame spread characteristics of the recycled plastics.
    Durability: Assessing durability including but not limited to resistance to weathering and degradation under UV light.
    Thermal conductivity: determine the thermal conductivity of recycled plastic materials to understand their insulation properties.
    Environmental Impact Analysis: Perform a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the overall environmental impact of using recycled plastics as building materials.
    Safety: The potential health and safety hazards associated with using recycled waste plastic as a construction material including but not limited to flammability, toxicity, and chemical reactions/emissions
    Identification of appropriate safe handling procedures including but not limited to personal protective equipment during the collection, sorting, recycling, installation, and disposal.

    Test Specimens:

    Prepare standardized test specimens of recycled plastics in accordance with relevant international standards. Ensure that the samples are representative of the commonly available recycled plastics in the market. The specimens will be collected from partnering companies and will mainly focus on roofing sheets, walling system (column, beam and blocks and paving blocks.

    Testing Procedures

    Follow established testing procedures and relevant international standards for each test method. Ensure that testing is conducted in a controlled environment to obtain accurate and reliable results.

    Data Collection and Analysis

    Record all test data and observations meticulously. Analyze the results to determine the mechanical, physical, and environmental properties of the recycled plastics. Compare the performance of recycled plastics with traditional building materials.

    Conclusion & Recommendations

    Summarize the findings of the material testing and assess the overall suitability of recycled plastics as building materials. Highlight the advantages, limitations, and potential applications of recycled plastics in the construction industry. Based on the test results, provide recommendations for the responsible use of recycled plastics in building projects and suggest possible areas for further research and improvement.

    Deliverables

    Expected deliverables include,

    Detailed final study report
    A summary of the findings
    A comprehensive Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for building materials made from recycled plastic waste.
    A detailed final study report with recommendations for application of recycled plastic waste as a building material.

    Timeline

    Provide an estimated timeline for completing the material testing and provide a budget for the resources required for the successful execution of the study. The selected firm will work collaboratively with HFHI staff throughout all stages of the work and shall hold regular progress update meetings.

    It is expected that the selected firm will begin work by October 1st, 2023, with a completion date of January 31st, 2024.

    Key Competencies

    Only firms meeting the following are eligibility will be considered:

    Demonstrated experience in material testing.
    Knowledge of the Kenya’s construction industry desirable
    Technical knowledge of building standards and environmental assessment
    Strong technical knowledge and expertise of the plastics and recycling process

    SubmissionInterested parties should submit the following:Interested firms are requested to submit their proposal no later than September 30, 2023, to AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org with the subject “RECYCLED PLASTIC ASSESSMENT”.Questions and clarifications about this Terms of Reference should be sent to AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org and copied to jsimwero@habitat.org to by 20th Sep 2023.

    Apply via :

    AFRNairobiInfo@habitat.org