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Rammed earth and adobe, re-engineered for seismic zones
Stabilised earth blocks reach 4–8 MPa compressive strength with 5–8% binder. Confined masonry frames and geogrid reinforcement carry them through code in active zones.
By BFN Editorial DeskBFN Editorial Desk3 min
4–8 MPa · ~0.06 kgCO₂e/kg
Stabilised earth blocks reach 4–8 MPa compressive strength with 5–8% binder. Confined masonry frames and geogrid reinforcement carry them through code in active zones.
Earth fails in tension and in water, not in compression. Stabilised blocks at 4–8 MPa are structurally sufficient for two storeys; seismic performance comes from confinement — ring beams, corner columns and geogrid bed joints — plus a good hat and good boots: wide eaves and a 400 mm plinth.
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