Earthen MasonryBSh (Hot Semi-Arid)Csa (Mediterranean)BWh (Hot Desert)
Monolithic Rammed Earth (Pisé de Terre / Tabia)
Pisé Traditionnel / El-Louh / Tabia
Primary Geographic Coverage: Morocco Algeria Tunisia Kenya Tanzania
Compressive Strength
2.6 MPa
Wet yield: 1.2 MPa (Ratio: 46%)Thermal Conductivity (λ)
0.85 W/m·K
Diffusivity: 0.413 mm²/sThermal Phase Lag (30cm)
8.9 hrs
U-Value: 1.95 W/m²·KCarbon vs. Concrete
-89.8%
Embodied: 0.023 kgCO2e/kgSoil Mechanics & Physics
| Soil Classification: | Well-graded gravelly sandy clay (graveleux-limoneux) |
| Liquid Limit (LL): | 30% |
| Plastic Limit (PL): | 18% |
| Plasticity Index (PI): | 12% |
| Optimum Moisture Content: | % |
| Proctor Dry Density: | 2150 kg/m³ |
Thermal Thermodynamics
| Conductivity (λ): | 0.85 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (c): | 980 J/kg·K |
| Thermal Diffusivity (α): | 0.413 mm²/s |
| Volumetric Heat Capacity: | 2058 kJ/m³·K |
| 30cm Wall U-Value: | 1.95 W/m²·K |
| Phase Delay (30cm Wall): | 8.9 Hours |
Tectonic Specifications & Architectural Engineering
Bioclimatic Engineering Strategy
Massive thermal storage buffer (volumetric capacity >2000 kJ/m³·K). Wall thicknesses of 50cm eliminate mechanical cooling requirements in desert and semi-arid valleys.
Mortar Formulation & Stabilization Mix
Monolithic cast in wooden formwork without mortar joints; compacted in 15cm lifts
Curing, Quality Control & Erosion Protection
Academic References & Lab Data Sources
- MOPT. Bases Para el Diseno y Construcción con Tapial; Madrid, 1992.
- Hugo, G.H.H. Earth Construction: A Comprehensive Guide; Stanford, 1994.