Abstract
Earth as a building material is increasingly being studied for its low environmental impact and its availability. Plant aggregates and fibers have been incorporated into the earth matrix in the aim of enhancing performance for thousands of years but scientific studies began quite recently. The present paper reviews the state of the art of research on the influence of these various natural and renewable resources in unfired earth materials such as compressed earth blocks, plasters, and extruded and stabilized blocks. This review, based on 50 major studies, includes characterization of the particles and treatments, and recapitulative tables of the material compositions, and the physical, mechanical, hygrothermal and durability performances of earth-based materials. A lack of references on hygroscopic and durability properties was observed. Future research orientations are thus suggested to promote and develop this type of sustainable material, which provides a solution for saving energy and natural resources.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 719-734 |
Number of pages | 16 |
Journal | Construction and Building Materials |
Volume | 111 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 15 May 2016 |
Keywords
- Blocks
- Characterization
- Earthen construction materials
- Performances
- Plant aggregates and fibers
- Plasters
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Civil and Structural Engineering
- Building and Construction
- General Materials Science