Abstract
The aim of this paper is to show that stabilised soil
blocks (SSBs) are cost-effective sustainable masonry units that have the
potential to be used both in developing countries and Europe. In fact, these blocks are extensively used in
developing parts of the world, such as Western Zambia. The topography of
Western Zambia is unusual in that there is little or no aggregate available for
use in block making and as a result most blocks have to be made out of soil
stabilised with cement. The process for making SSBs is to dry mix soil and
cement, add water and then compress the conglomerate together in a mould to
form a masonry unit.
This paper presents the findings from laboratory tests
on the strength and durability of stabilised soil blocks. It is shown that this
construction technology is not only cost effective and has a very low impact on
the environment for use in buildings in Africa, but is also a viable technology
for use in the Irish climate.
| Original language | English (Ireland) |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Bridge and Concrete Research in Ireland (BCRI2010) |
| Place of Publication | Cork |
| Publication status | Published - 1 Sep 2010 |
Authors (Note for portal: view the doc link for the full list of authors)
- Authors
- Goggins, J.
