Characteristic Properties of Cement-Stabilized Rammed Earth Blocks

Abstract

The paper presents an effort to study the properties of locally available soil and its suitability as a construction material. The properties of cement-stabilized and unstabilized rammed earth blocks were studied in terms of density, strength, compaction energy, and durability in both cured and uncured condition. All the test samples were produced using steel rammer and wooden mold, with an attempt to select and validate the block-making equipment and technique that can be used for construction of rammed earth structures. The detailed test results and analysis show that the cement-stabilized rammed earth (CSRE) blocks are consistent in terms of density with respect to standard Proctor value under the accurate control of parameters such as cement content, optimum moisture content (OMC), and compaction energy. The CSRE blocks meet the design criteria outlined in various standards.