A review of chemical stabilisation and fibre reinforcement techniques used to enhance the mechanical properties of rammed earth

Thompson, David; Augarde, Charles; Osorio, Juan Pablo

Abstract

Rammed earth is a sustainable construction method with a lower carbon footprint and embodied energy compared to traditional materials like steel and concrete. However, its lower mechanical properties when compared to these forms of construction make it vulnerable to seismic forces. This paper reviews the published literature on enhancing rammed earth's mechanical properties through both chemical stabilisation and fibre reinforcement, with a focus on reusing waste materials. The effectiveness of these techniques are highlighted by comparing experimental results with minimum specifications taken from relevant guidelines and standards for building rammed earth structures in seismic zones. These findings demonstrate that chemical stabilisation and fibre reinforcement can improve rammed earth's mechanical properties, ensuring it meets these minimum specifications thus making it a viable form of construction in areas with seismic activity.

Citation

Thompson, D., Augarde, C., & Osorio, J. P. (in press). A review of chemical stabilisation and fibre reinforcement techniques used to enhance the mechanical properties of rammed earth. Discover Civil Engineering, 2(1), Article 27. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44290-025-00184-1

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Feb 7, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Feb 19, 2025
• Deposit Date: Feb 20, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 21, 2025
• Journal: Discover Civil Engineering
• Print ISSN: 2948-1546
• Electronic ISSN: 2948-1546
• Publisher: Springer
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 2
• Issue: 1
• Article Number: 27
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s44290-025-00184-1
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/3491165