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Rammed Earth Construction

  • Increasingly popular among Africans and the diaspora

  • Focus on eco-friendly living

Definition

  • Utilizes local earth or material from nearby quarries for construction

  • Applicable for walls, houses, schools, etc.

Eco-friendly Aspects

  • Requires little to no cement or iron rods

  • Non-toxic and derived from natural resources

Advantages of Rammed Earth Construction

  1. 100% Natural & Non-Toxic

  2. Very Low Carbon Footprint

  3. Great for Indoor Climate

  4. Moisture Control

  5. Fire Resistance

  6. Affordable

  7. Low Life Cycle Cost

  8. Zero Waste

  9. Noise Control

  10. Load Bearing

  11. Durability

  12. Pest Protection

Materials Used in Rammed Earth

  • Common materials include laterite, clay, and aggregates.

  • These materials are often locally available, either on-site or nearby.

  • Unstabilized earth walls consist of natural materials without cement.

Environmental Impact

  • Minimal processing required for rammed earth, leading to reduced environmental degradation.

  • Construction emissions are lower compared to conventional methods (e.g., concrete).

Thermal Characteristics

  • Great Indoor Climate:

    • High thermal mass properties leading to heat absorption and storage.

    • Reduces indoor temperatures by approximately 4-5 degrees.

Moisture Control

  • Excellent humidity regulation, storing excess water vapor and releasing it during dry spells.

  • Creates healthier and cleaner indoor air quality.

  • Detoxifying effect by absorbing indoor toxins and odors.

Fire Resistance

  • Non-combustible material.

  • 300 mm thick rammed earth walls resist fire for up to 4 hours.

Cost-effectiveness

  • Low material costs, especially if sourced locally.

  • Basic tools required for construction (e.g., plywood, compacting logs).

Life Cycle Cost

  • Low maintenance after construction; sealed walls need minimal upkeep.

  • Passive qualities reduce energy costs for heating and cooling.

  • Higher long-term value as environmental consciousness increases.

Sustainability Features

  • Zero Waste Concept:

    • Fully recyclable and can be returned to the ground.

    • Contributes to a circular economy, maintaining strength for reuse.

Acoustic Properties

  • Low sound transmission; effective soundproofing in noisy urban environments.

Structural Integrity

  • Load Bearing:

    • Functions as an active structural element supporting upper loads without additional reinforcement.

  • Durability:

    • Lasting capabilities; some structures have lasted centuries, exemplified by the Great Wall of China.

    • Eco-friendly method gaining popularity due to long-term sturdiness and cost.