Temperature effects on sorption behaviour of compressed and cement-stabilised earth blocks

Abstract

This paper seeks, as a part of Algerian policy, to encourage the reconstruction of the ground in order to achieve economic reconstruction and the safety of inhabitants and the environment. The study focuses on the hygrothermal behaviour of compressed and stabilised earth blocks that can be used in different climate zones, like the south of Algeria, where the temperature is up to 50°C in summer, and the coastal towns, where humidity exceeds 80%. Accordingly, an experimental study has been conducted to determine the influence of temperature on the sorption isotherms for compressed and stabilised earth blocks stabilised with 6% of cement. The sorption isotherms were measured at temperatures of 10, 23, 30, 40 and 50°C. Twelve equations have been fit to the experimental isotherms to find the one that gives the best agreement. An experimental model was then developed based on the Oswin model describing the dependence of temperature on the sorption characteristics of compressed and stabilised earth blocks. The results show a significant influence of the increase in temperature on the hygrothermal behaviour, in particular a reduction of 11% in the equivalent water content between 10°C and 50°C.

Contribution of compressed stabilized earth bricks (CSEB) to the control of indoor air quality in buildings: case study ofAlgeria

“…In fact, its curve is below all the others and varies with less amplitude in summer. This is due to its higher moisture sorption power [26].…”

“…The compressed stabilized earth bricks (CSEB) used in this work was thermally and hygroscopically characterized in the work of Miloudi et al [26] and mechanically in the work of Mahdad et al [27]. Table 1 describes the characteristics of this CSEB material.…”