Abstract

A simple, complete and comprehensive method is proposed to build with soil in an effective and sustainable manner, to ensure the architectural benefits and durability sought, consistent with current standards of quality and control. This work stems directly from a doctoral thesis and vast experience in construction and research over thirty years, and from the latest results obtained from chemical stabilisations using enzymes, carob, Chelidonium majus and various limes. The method consists of applying the most efficient and optimal stabilization to each type of clay present, based on its physicochemical characteristics and the moisture content specific to the construction technique used. This involves characterizing the particle size through granulometry and sedimentometry, its crystallographic nature through thermal gravimetric analysis and/or X-ray diffraction, and testing its strength and shrinkage behavior with different stabilizers. Finally, a working table is presented showing the optimal stabilization methods for each type of clay present.

Keywords:Soil stabilisation; Clay; Earth construction; Soil cement; Rammed earth

Abbreviations:CEB: Compressed Earth Block; T: Tetrahedra Layer; O: Octahedral Layer