Earthen MasonryBSh (Hot Semi-Arid)Csa (Mediterranean Hot Summer)
Compressed Earth Block (CEB) — Lime Stabilized (Tensift Soil)
Brique de Terre Comprimée Stabilisée à la Chaux
Primary Geographic Coverage: Morocco Algeria Tunisia
Compressive Strength
1.1 MPa
Wet yield: 0.58 MPa (Ratio: 53%)Thermal Conductivity (λ)
0.635 W/m·K
Diffusivity: 0.388 mm²/sThermal Phase Lag (30cm)
9.2 hrs
U-Value: 1.63 W/m²·KCarbon vs. Concrete
-65.3%
Embodied: 0.052 kgCO2e/kgSoil Mechanics & Physics
| Soil Classification: | Slightly clayey silt with medium plasticity |
| Liquid Limit (LL): | 34% |
| Plastic Limit (PL): | 20% |
| Plasticity Index (PI): | 14% |
| Optimum Moisture Content: | % |
| Proctor Dry Density: | 1970 kg/m³ |
Thermal Thermodynamics
| Conductivity (λ): | 0.635 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (c): | 920 J/kg·K |
| Thermal Diffusivity (α): | 0.388 mm²/s |
| Volumetric Heat Capacity: | 1637 kJ/m³·K |
| 30cm Wall U-Value: | 1.63 W/m²·K |
| Phase Delay (30cm Wall): | 9.2 Hours |
Tectonic Specifications & Architectural Engineering
Bioclimatic Engineering Strategy
High thermal inertia ideal for semi-arid zones with diurnal temperature fluctuations exceeding 18°C. Traps daytime solar radiation and releases gentle warmth into living quarters during chilly desert nights.
Mortar Formulation & Stabilization Mix
1:3 Lime-sieved subsoil mortar; 10-12mm bed joints
Curing, Quality Control & Erosion Protection
Academic References & Lab Data Sources
- Lahdili, M.; El Abbassi, F.-E.; Sakami, S.; Aamouche, A. Mechanical and Thermal Behavior of Compressed Earth Bricks Reinforced with Lime and Coal Aggregates. Buildings 2022, 12, 1730.
- Delgado, M.C.J.; Guerrero, I.C. The selection of soils for unstabilised earth building: A normative review. Constr. Build. Mater. 2007, 21, 237–251.