Requested research

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

Structural analysis: Study the seismic behavior of stabilized earth block structures, with special attention to the seismic behavior of walls, reinforcements, arches, and channel roof elements.

Reinforcement study: Emphasize the role, number, material, and position of both horizontal and vertical reinforcements.

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 a prototype school in the Terai region of Nepal (2008). Determine design limitations and structural safety margins, based on minimum needed material and mechanical strengths.

Background: compressed stabilized earth blocks

Earth construction is still widely used in many parts of the world, including seismic regions, but scientific literature on its seismic behavior is limited. This research focuses on compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB), a technique with environmental and cost-saving advantages.

CSEBs are made from a mixture of soil and sand, with stabilizers such as cement or lime, and little water. The soil must have a high ratio of coarse particles to achieve the required compression. Blocks are pressed using a manual operated earth block press and cured in the sun for about a week.

Provided the soil quality is suitable and sufficient compression is achieved, CSEBs have potential for earthquake-resistant construction. Likely by following basic rules for standard brick and block masonry walls, combined with reinforcements such as horizontal beams and vertical steel rods. However, these key research questions require assessment and validation through this assignment.

Further action

This project is part of a broader effort to assess and improve the seismic behavior of earthen structures, which also includes rammed earth and interlocking 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.