Effect of Stabilizers and Compression Pressure on Mechanical and Shrinkage Properties of Sustainable Compressed Earth Blocks

Abstract:

This research focuses on producing sustainable Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) for load-bearing masonry, elaborated by washing sand waste, stabilized with lime and containing Alpha fibers. The base material was essentially sand/silt (Plasticity Index of 18 %). Compaction pressure was found to significantly influence mechanical performance. A crucial objective was mastering shrinkage; a phenomenon directly correlated to applied compression pressure. The optimal compromise dosage, which contained 6% lime and 1% of fibers, presented less deformations and achieved a compressive strength of 7.5 MPa and a flexural strength of 2 MPa, significantly exceeding the required regulatory standard.

• Periodical: International Journal of Engineering Research in Africa (Volume 80)
• Pages: 157-176
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-q0j8pK
• Online since: July 2026
• Authors: Souhir Ellouze*, Houcem Trabelsi, Omar Mezghanni, Atef Daoud
• Keywords: Compressed Earth Blocks, Fiber, Lime, Mechanical Performance, Shrinkage

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