Abstract
Abstract This research aims to produce a Compressed Earth Block (CEB) product using locally available soil collected from northern Jordan. The CEB mixture was further stabilized using Portland cement, lime, and sodium silicate. The research significance is based upon the urgent need of most developing countries (e.g. Jordan, Egypt…etc) to build more durable and low-cost houses by using locally available materials. As a result, CEB was identified as a cheap and environmentally friendly construction material. CEB specimens were thoroughly characterized by studying the mechanical properties and durability characteristics. Blocks of 30 x 15 x 8 cm with two holes of 7.5 cm in diameter have a potential for higher enduring, higher compressive strength, better thermal insulation, and lower production cost. Blocks were manufactured with an addition of 8 % for either Portland cement or lime, as well as 2 % of sodium silicate to the soil. The results showed that the addition of 8 % of cement to the CEB achieves satisfactory results in both mechanical and durability properties. Also, the addition of sodium silicate was found to enhance the early-age compressive strength however it affected negatively the durable properties of blocks by increasing the erosion rate and deterioration when exposed to water.
Highlights
Compressed earth blocks are represented as cost-effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly building materials in comparison with traditional building elements
As for UNE 41410 [24] standard of practice for the production of compressed earth blocks recommendations, the granular composition of the selected soil falls within the shaded area on the diagram of texture given in this standard; it gives satisfactory results
Cement was preferred to use in the soil with high sand content
Summary
Compressed earth blocks are represented as cost-effective, sustainable, and environmentally friendly building materials in comparison with traditional building elements. Other building technologies such as concrete, burnt earth bricks, and cement-based bricks are considered to be high-cost, highenergy, and associated with adverse environmental aspects [1]. Cement, which is one of the different used soils, is considered the most popular stabilizer in the manufacture of CEB. Cement-stabilized mixtures show the lowest and total porosity, which is mainly affected by the different degrees of compaction during production. In the early stages of production, cement stabilization is more effects than lime stabilization on the mechanical and durable properties of
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