Analyzing the Potential of Compressed Earth Blocks as a Feasible and Sustainable Building Material

Journal: Architecture Engineering and Science DOI: 10.32629/aes.v4i2.1183

Mohammad Arif Kamal

Architecture Section, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India

Abstract

The most popular building material in India is burnt clay brick, which not only contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions but also removes a large amount of topsoil from agricultural land each year. Traditional burned brick places a great deal of strain on the environment because the burning process produces greenhouse gases. Compressed Earth Block (CEB) is among the eco-friendly building materials. It is also known as a pressed earth block or a compressed soil block. It is created by mixing the proper ratios of non-expansive clay, non-expansive subsoil, sand, and aggregate. Earth blocks are created by compressing wet earth and letting it dry in a controlled atmosphere. A machine that may be powered manually or electrically is used to compress the damp earth. The compressed earth blocks have the advantage of being constructed from local clays and soils that may be found on or close to the construction site, which contributes to their sustainability. For sustainable development, the Compressed Stabilized Earth Block (CSEB) provides the possibility for natural, energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and agriculturally compatible building materials. This paper examines the case of Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) for load-bearing wall construction as well as filler material in buildings. It also discusses the engineering viability and properties of such compressed earth bricks. The paper concludes that compressed earth bricks are a realistic alternative to regular bricks with additional benefits.

Keywords

building material, energy efficiency, insulation, insulated tiles, sustainable architecture

References

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