Towards the development of performance-efficient compressed earth blocks from industrial and agro-industrial by-products
Marian Valenzuela, Gustavo Ciudad, Juan Pablo Cárdenas-Ramírez, Carlos Medina, Alexis Salas, Ángelo Oñate, Gonzalo Pincheira, Shady Attia, Víctor Tuninetti
Abstract
This work addresses the development of compressed earth blocks with high quality using stabilizers and reinforcements of industrial and agroindustrial by-products. A critique of the production of compressed earth blocks using new mixtures, compositions, and characteristics required for adequate performance according to different construction standards is included. Furthermore, the effect of adding stabilizers and reinforcements from industrial and agro-industrial by-products on strength, durability and thermal insulation is evaluated. Fibers improve tensile and crack resistance while stabilizers enhance cohesion of mixtures, originating new compounds with higher compressive strength and lower permeability. Finally, the main prediction tools for engineering design and application of compressed earth blocks in building are discussed. The main findings and research gaps identified provide a baseline for future research projects focused on the transition to a low-carbon future through the production of compressed earth block.