Sreekumar, M. G.
Hygrothermal properties of stabilized earthen masonry blocks - Vol.103(4), Dec - USA Springer 2022 - 1127-1134p.
Energy efficiency in building construction is the main focus of modern construction practices. Earthen construction is gaining more attention in this respect. Moisture buffering value of unstabilized earthen materials is a peculiar characteristic contributing to this objective. At the same time, excessive moisture content leads to reduced mechanical strength. Most of the conventional stabilization methods adversely affect the assured thermal comfort of earthen construction. However, the feasibility of fiber stabilization in improving the hygrothermal properties of stabilized earthen blocks along with strength enhancement is not been explored properly. This study is focused on this objective to investigate the feasibility of locally available fibrous wastes. The results of the study showed improved thermal comfort with better moisture buffering properties and enhanced strength characteristics for coir fiber-reinforced specimens, and could establish the feasibility of coir fiber wastes as reinforcements in stabilized soil masonry blocks suitable for energy-efficient construction.
Humanities and Applied Sciences
Hygrothermal properties of stabilized earthen masonry blocks - Vol.103(4), Dec - USA Springer 2022 - 1127-1134p.
Energy efficiency in building construction is the main focus of modern construction practices. Earthen construction is gaining more attention in this respect. Moisture buffering value of unstabilized earthen materials is a peculiar characteristic contributing to this objective. At the same time, excessive moisture content leads to reduced mechanical strength. Most of the conventional stabilization methods adversely affect the assured thermal comfort of earthen construction. However, the feasibility of fiber stabilization in improving the hygrothermal properties of stabilized earthen blocks along with strength enhancement is not been explored properly. This study is focused on this objective to investigate the feasibility of locally available fibrous wastes. The results of the study showed improved thermal comfort with better moisture buffering properties and enhanced strength characteristics for coir fiber-reinforced specimens, and could establish the feasibility of coir fiber wastes as reinforcements in stabilized soil masonry blocks suitable for energy-efficient construction.
Humanities and Applied Sciences