Fiber-Reinforced Earth Blocks

The use of local and readily available materials is explored for the construction of low-cost housing for dwelling and for farmsteads in developing countries. The practice whereby mud blocks and bricks are reinforced with fibers and coarse aggregates is examined. Parameters studied were the effects of drying age, percentage fiber or aggregate content and firing temperature. Results showed that strength is improved with drying age until the blocks lose all absorbed moisture. For each drying age, peak compressive strength is achieved at particular percentage reinforcement contents, depending on the reinforcement material. Also, firing of bricks improves their strength, and peak strength is achieved at particular firing temperatures.