Advanced study of the mechanical properties of different types of compressed earth blocks

Abstract

This thesis presents extensive research about the behaviour and mechanical properties of compressed earth block,CEB. One of the main problems for the development of new earth building has been the lack of standard criteria that could inform an accurate evaluation of the material. Therefore, in order to fully characterize the compressed earth block, suitable test procedures for compressive strength tests of the CEB have been studied. Specifically, we analyzed the effect of specimen size and the conditioning of the contact surfaces between the platens of the testing machine and the specimen. Furthermore, we searched for the most appropriate method to characterize the behaviour and to determine the tensile strength of CEB. Finally, the application of CEB in the concepts of fracture mechanics by adapting standard tests in concrete have been proposed, in order to know the ductility of this material. This research may help to understand the characteristics and mechanical behaviour of four types of CEB manufactured in different cities in Spain.