Submitted by:
Dr. L. Dinachandra Singh
Shri Ch. Sarat Singh
Dept of Science & Technology
Technology Bhavan, New Mehrauli Road
New Delhi
Introduction
Earth is the oldest material used by man. People have used their native ingenuity to develop forms for the utilisation of earth ranging from the extremely simple to highly complex. They have used the material in response to varying resources, social needs and site conditions. With the individual revolution, people had access to machines, easily available fossil fuels and a range of newly developed materials. New technologies became popular and earth construction skills were lost or regulated to the vernacular builder. Impetus was given to earth architecture in the post world war II era due to economic and energy saving concerns. However, as western nations worked their way to prosperity, the use of earth was eclipsed by a desire for modernity. Earth has always been the most widely used material for building in India and is a part of its culture. Traditionally, mud construction varies enormously with topography, climatic condition and needs of different regions. The common methods used for earth construction are cob, wattle and daub, rammed earth, and adobe. Approximately 55% of all India homes still use raw earth for walls. Earth is now though of as a poor manâ„¢s material because of disadvantages such as high maintenance and low durability. Its major limitations are:
water penetration
erosion of walls at level by splashing of water from ground surfaces
attack by termites and pests
high maintenance requirements
The compressed earth block overcomes these limitations by an increase in block density through compaction using a mechanic press. The water content in soil is low for compaction as compared to the puddle clay required for mud bricks and ensures much greater dimensional stability. A block :
has high density which varies between 1.8 and 2.1 gm/c.c., this gives more load
bearing capacity and improved water resistance.
is low cost
is easy to manufacture locally by small group of people
is low in energy consumption because no fuel is burnt for block making or
transportation
can use soil available at site
has smooth surfaces
With these advantages a compressed earth block can be used for construction of houses. Greater design care and stabilisation enable the construction of more ambitious structures that need less maintenance and are longer lasting.
read full report
http://mastec.nicMASTEC/Report%20Low%20C...ousing.pdf