Biopolymers for enhanced performance earth construction: recovery of ancient traditions

Abstract

At ancient times, in order to protect earth buildings from the action of rain and water absorption, different construction techniques were used. For instance, the meticulous construction detail with special design for foundations, plinths, roofs and eaves, corners, frames of doors and windows, connections between different materials and above all a special care in rooms subject to moisture, related to bathrooms or kitchens. In order to enhance durability performance various wall building systems were used, such as the employ of plasters or paints periodically renovated, acting as sacrifice layers, the coating with other building materials to protect the earth wall and the use of tiles, wood or stone.

Soil stabilization was also a way of increasing the durability of earth buildings by increasing their mechanical strength and resistance against water action. Being so, since ancient times, different stabilizers and additives have been mixed with earth materials to perform earth walls and earth plasters. In this context, we will present lime stabilization techniques and also the use of additives (biopolymers and minerals) concerning durability improvement of compressed soil, using lime, mineral additives, various biopolymers and the addition of used cooking oil.