Requested research

Literature review: Investigate the available research on interlocking stabilized earth blocks, including seismic analysis and comparisons with other reinforced brick and block structures.

Structural analysis: Study the seismic behavior of interlocking stabilized earth block structures, focusing on the role, number, material, and placement of horizontal and vertical reinforcements.

Comparative assessment: Conduct a performance-based evaluation of two types of interlocking earth block walls — dry-stacked versus mortared — and determine which performs best under seismic loading.

Key parameters: Define all factors influencing the seismic performance of this earth technique, such as wall configuration, overall dimensions, reinforcement detailing, material and mechanical properties, earth composition, and additives to the earth mix.

Practical application: Design, model, and analyze prototype houses and school developed after the 2010 Pariaman Earthquake in Sumatra. Determine design limitations and structural safety margins, based on minimum needed material and mechanical strengths.

Background: interlocking compressed stabilized earth blocks

Earth construction remains widely used in seismic regions around the world, yet scientific studies on its seismic performance are limited. This assignment focuses on interlocking compressed stabilized earth blocks, which offer environmental and cost-saving advantages compared to conventional masonry.

Two construction methods are of particular interest:

• Dry-stacked blocks (mortar-less): cost-effective, quick to build, and easy to handle.
  
  

• Blocks with mortared joints: narrow joints filled with fine liquid mortar, almost gluing the blocks together.

Their seismic performance is still debated. Some argue dry-stacking is superior because movement between the blocks helps dissipate seismic energy. Others maintain that walls must behave as unified shear panels, requiring mortar or adhesive joints. The role of vertical and horizontal reinforcement in both systems is central to this study.

Further action

This project is part of a broader research effort to assess and improve seismic safety of earthen construction, which also includes techniques such as rammed earth and compressed stabilized earth blocks.

Interested? For more information or to set up a meeting, possibly as a final-year thesis opportunity, send us an email. We’d be happy to discuss how you can contribute to this important area of research.