Properties and durability of compressed and stabilized earth blocks using excavated soil rich in limestone

Abstract

The primary purpose of this study is to assess excavated soil rich in limestone for its use as a raw material in manufacturing Compressed and Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEBS). Valorization of cut excavation is a promising solution to reduce the strain on natural resources, which aligns with sustainable development goals. The identification of raw materials was performed to study the main properties of blocks manufactured. Samples are obtained by chemical stabilization with the addition of 8% cement. They are compacted at different pressures (1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 5 and 10 MPa) using a hydraulic press. Certainly the stabilization and the compaction of the block contribute significantly to its strength properties but the use of carbonate-rich fine-grained earth has further strengthened the material. The first part of this paper spotlight the measurement of the optimal water content (ɷopt) for the different levels of applied stresses. The second part, presents an experimental study conducted to investigate the thermal-mechanical performance and durability of CSEBS. The compressing strength recorded a value of 16.32 MPa at a compressing stress of 10 MPa and the thermal conductivity observes an increase with increasing the compaction because this tends to densify the mixture. Moreover, the hydrous properties of the compressed stabilized earth blocks are stated by gradually raising the compacting pressure.