Compressed earth block
From GLGI
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Contents |
Benefits of Compressed Earth Block
Environmentally Sustainable
- 7% of greenhouse gasses attributed to making of concrete
- Less embodied energy
- Concrete block 24,000 BTU’s
- Brick 18,000 BTU’s
- Adobe (Similar CEB) 2,400 BTU’s
- Raw material to build available in roughly 75% of earth’s soils
Healthy Living Environment
- Non-toxic
- Acoustics – virtually soundproof
Energy efficiency
- 24 – 30° F cooler interior temperature in hot climates than concrete block
- Thermal mass
Affordability
- Wall construction
- Concreted block $2.60 - $4.20 per sq. ft.
- Concrete earth block $1.20 - $4.20 per sq. ft.
Cost per sq. ft.
- 30% - 60% less than conventional built
- Energy savings of 40% - 52% over 12 month period
- Cheaper to repair
Quality and Durability
- Greater compression strength than concrete or brick
- More flexure and ductility; less propensity to crack than brick or concrete
- The oldest structures on earth made from earthen material
Adaptable to a broad range of climate and design requirements
- Aesthetically pleasing – range of finishes possible
- Flexibility in design – blend with natural world
- High performance/energy efficient in warm, wet, and cold climates
Natural Building Research - Compressed Earth Block
Current Areas of Focus
Functionality in Cold Climates - mass effect - heat capacity transference - comparison of energy efficiency with stick built
Cost to Build
Hybrid (e.g., Compressed Earth Block (CEB) and Straw Bale)
Case Studies
Contacts
CRATerre (Natural Building Organization)
Auroville Project (Housing Project in India, CEB Case Study, see handout)
Pascua Yaqui Tribe (Tribal Housing and Government Building Using CEB)
Jeffery Christian, Oak Ridge National Laboratories (thermal mass effect)
Mike’s Contacting
Jim Halloch (CEB Builder in CO)
Habitat for Humanity in CO (CEB project)
Charles Graham, Construction Sciences Department, Texas A&M University (research CEB)
John J. Morony, Biology Department, Southwest Texas Junior College (Research -- CEB/Adobe thermal mass)
