Hydromechanical performances and durability of compressed earth blocks stabilised with metakaolin-based geopolymer binder

Abstract

Demographic growth and the need for housing remain significant issues. Compressed earth bricks (CEB) are appropriate materials due to their availability and thermal properties, but different considerations hinder their adoption. The influence of water on the mechanical properties and durability of CEBs stabilised with an alkali-activated geopolymer binder has yet to be thoroughly investigated. Thus, this study assessed the hydromechanical performance and durability of compressed earth bricks (CEBs) stabilised with an alkali-activated geopolymer binder. Dry mixes consisting of lateritic earth and 5—20% metakaolin (MK) binder, with respect to the dry mass of the earth, were prepared. A solution of NaOH at a concentration of 12 M was used to activate MK. The wet mixes were then statically compressed using a manual press at a stress of about 3.5 MPa. The dried CEBs were subjected to progressive mechanical characterisation after exposure to different water content and durability indicators assessment. A satisfactory mathematical correlation was established between the relative compressive strength and water content of the CEBs. CEBs stabilised with geopolymer binder showed increased stability to water, and their absorption capacity was relatively below the recommended 20% threshold. The abrasion resistance coefficient improved after the wetting–drying (W-D) cycles and was above the recommended 7 cm²/g.