Evaluation of the Properties of Adobe Blocks with Clay and Manure

Abstract

The development of new building materials that meet technological, economic, and environmental criteria has been highlighted in recent decades, especially regarding the use of alternative raw materials or new production methodologies. In this context, the objective of this project was to promote the development of adobe blocks using clay and manure, contributing to the sustainable development of the construction sector due to the use of adobe blocks, produced by the raw earth technique. Initially, the raw materials were characterized through chemical composition by XRF, mineralogical composition by XRD, granulometry, and Atterberg limits. Later, adobe blocks were produced manually, measuring 20 × 10 × 8 cm3, using three dosing techniques: (i) blocks with clay and manure; (ii) blocks with clay, sand and manure; and (iii) blocks stabilized by Portland cement and hydrated lime. The tests evaluated were compressive strength, water absorption, and durability. The characterization results of the raw materials show that the material used in the research are suitable for production of adobe blocks. The mechanical parameters prove a disadvantage of adobe blocks: their low resistance. Even so, the results with the use of adobe improve the strength of the material, due to the solidification of the adobe structure. In addition, the use of stabilization, mainly Portland cement, allows the results obtained in the research to be compatible with other published articles. Thus, it is concluded that the use of manure and stabilization, such as Portland cement, improve the mechanical behavior and stability of the blocks, which increases the durability of the material.