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Eingeladener Vortrag
- nein (30)
The mechanical characterization of adobe bricks is an important first step in the study of the behaviour of adobe masonry. For this reason, in the last decades, different authors have conducted research on the mechanical behaviour of adobes from various regions of the world. Despite the importance of mechanical characterization, there are still only a few standards and normative documents with clear indications for the mechanical testing of earthen materials and, in general, These indications are not thorough and vary among different countries. Consequently, authors tend to adopt different types of test specimens and procedures in their experimental work, thus obtaining results that are not directly comparable. The fact that the materials and procedures traditionally used are also not standardized,varying greatly from region to region, also contributes to the difficulty of comparing results from different studies. This chapter presents a review of the indications provided by codes, standards and other technical recommendations for the mechanical testing of adobe bricks, as well as a detailed review of procedures adopted, and results obtained by different authors regarding the mechanical characterization of traditional adobe bricks. This chapter focuses, in particular, on the behaviour of adobe bricks when subjected to simple compression. It provides an overview of the existing knowledge and identifies needs for future research and development.
The characterization of the mechanical properties and behaviour of adobe masonry is fundamental for the understanding of the structural behaviour of adobe constructions. Thus, in the last decades, experimental studies focused on this topic have been carried out by different authors. Many of the existing experimental works, however, were carried out aiming to support broader studies focused on the seismic behaviour of adobe constructions and are not very detailed. Moreover, authors tend to adopt different procedures in their experimental work, since there are few indications in existing standards for testing adobe masonry. The wide variety in materials used, both for the adobes and mortars, further complicates this work, making it difficult to compare results obtained in different studies. This chapter provides an overview of the indications given by standards and other technical recommendations for the mechanical testing of adobe masonry. It presents a review of existing research on the mechanical behaviour of adobe masonry, addressing studies that focus on: (i) compression behaviour, (ii) shear behaviour, (iii) joint shear behaviour. It provides a global analysis of the existing knowledge, suggesting improvements for normative documents and identifying future Research needs.
The aim of this paper is to implement a numerical model to reproduce the nonlinear behavior of cob walls under shear loading.
Axial compression, pull-off, and diagonal compression tests were carried out to derive the mechanical parameters. In addition, the stressstrain relationships, the nonlinear behavior, and the failure modes were defined. The experimental results were then used to calibrate a finiteelement model. The material behavior was simulated through a macromodeling approach adopting the total strain rotating crack model.
A sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the effects of varying the parameters with higher uncertainty on the structural behavior.
The numerical model achieved good correspondence with the experimental results in terms of simulation of the shear stress–shear strain relationship and of damage pattern.
Dynamic characterisation of historic bell-tower using a sensitivity-based technique for model tuning
(2018)
The most relevant results of the vibration-based investigations performed on a historic masonry tower in Italy namely the Santa Maria a Vico bell-tower is here presented. The first part of the study involves preliminary full-scale ambient vibration measurements in operational conditions and dynamics-based finite element (FE) modelling. At first, a manual tuning of the uncertain parameters of the model was carried out to adjust material properties, soil-structure interaction and constraining effect of the neighbouring structures. Then, based on the sensitivity analysis, only the most sensitive parameters were chosen as updating parameters. Finally, a model updating technique based on a sensitivity-based method was used to minimise the error between experimental vibration data and numerical response values. To this aim, a residual vector defined as the weighted difference between the measured quantities and calculated quantities was used. The uncertain structural parameters of the FE model were identified by minimising a robust penalty function. The calibrated model was used as an important tool for the seismic assessment of the structure using pushover analysis. Since the assumed value of the masonry compressive strength is the most sensitive parameter of non-linear behaviour, a sensitivity analysis was performed considering reference values in the range of interest. The seismic safety corresponding to increasing levels of the seismic hazard was finally investigated.
In this paper, a comparative study on the initial shear strength of
masonry with earth mortars is presented. Triplet tests were carried out to characterise the shear bond strength of five different types of earth mortar, three purely mineral and two with vegetable additives (wood and straw chaff), using calcium silicate blocks. In spite of their lower bulk densities, mortars with chaffs reached a value of compressive strength comparable to the values shown by the purely mineral mortars. The characteristic initial shear strengths of all the tested earth mortars were between two and five times higher than the minimum values for initial shear strengths required by standards.
To assess the influence of blocks pre-wetting, a comparison between calcium silicate blocks and earth blocks was performed to evaluate the results obtained from the standard test procedure compared to the more common practice of using earth mortars in combination with earthen blocks.
The main aim of the research was the development of a first valid database for material parameters of earth block masonry (EBM) with particular regard to statistical characteristics. A solid database is needed for the determination of the materials partial safety factor. Therefore, compressive strength tests were carried out with two types of earth blocks and two types of prefabricated earth mortar.
The evaluation has shown that the mean variation of the compressive strength was remarkably less than expected, which indicates high quality standards of the components earth block and mortar with regard to industrial production. Using the reliability method, a partial safety factor for EBM subjected to compression was determined on the basis of these test results. The findings have shown that a common calculation method for EBM based on partial safety factors following the valid masonry construction standard is feasible.
China
(2017)
The contributions included in the book provide a reconnaissance on the conservation rules and current protection policies of more than 100 countries, with particular attention to the emerging nations and twentieth-century architecture. The contributions illustrate the critical issues related to architectural listings, with a brief history of national approaches, a linkography and a short bibliography. The book also provides a short critical lexicography, with 12 papers written by scholars and experts including topics on identities, heritages, conservation, memories and the economy. By examining the methods used to designate building as heritage sites across the continents, this book provides a com¬prehensive overview of current protection policies of twentieth-century architecture as well as the role of architectural history.
The aim of this study was to develop a lightweight composite façade element for refurbishment of existing façades. It was crucial to minimize the thermal bridges and to undercut the thermal requirement of the system existing façade new element. The awareness of the environmental impact of the building sector is increasing. In this context, ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) materials are shown to be promising alternatives with advantages such as lower embodied energy and reduced environmental impact. Predictions suggest that UHPC composite elements for building envelopes could have other benefits such as an increased service life, optimized use of building area due to thinner elements and minimized maintenance due to the absence of reinforcement or use of non-corrosive reinforcing materials such as carbon fibers. In this framework, composite elements have been developed combining an autoclaved aerated concrete insulation layer with an external UHPC supporting layer. The results show that the lightweight composite element has a good performance in term of thermal transmittance and minimization of thermal bridges.
This study analyses the mechanical behaviour under pseudo-dynamic loading of structural elements built in rammed earth and strengthened with polyester fabric strips. This strengthening technique was developed to exploit the strength potential of rammed earth and to solve its lack of tensile strength. For this reason, in-plane cyclic tests were carried out to investigate the shear behaviour of unstrengthened and strengthened walls. The strengthening technique requires low-tech equipment and workmanship, uses readily available, not expensive and industrially standardised materials. The experimental results were analysed in terms of stiffness degradation, energy dissipation capacity and equivalent viscous damping. Although the unstrengthened and strengthened walls confirmed a limited ductile behaviour, the findings confirm that the strengthening contributes to limit the spread of the diagonal cracks and provide an increase of strength in terms of horizontal load and displacement capacity.
The aim of this study was to develop a lightweight composite façade element for refurbishment of existing façades. It was crucial to minimize the thermal bridges and to undercut the thermal requirement of the system existing façade new element. The awareness of the environmental impact of the building sector is increasing. In this context, ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) materials are shown to be promising alternatives with advantages such as lower embodied energy and reduced environmental impact. Predictions suggest that UHPC composite elements for building envelopes could have other benefits such as an increased service life, optimized use of building area due to thinner elements and minimized maintenance due to the absence of reinforcement or use of non-corrosive reinforcing materials such as carbon fibers. In this framework, composite elements have been developed combining an autoclaved aerated concrete insulation layer with an external UHPC supporting layer. The results show that the lightweight composite element has a good performance in term of thermal transmittance and minimization of thermal bridges.
This study assesses the structural vulnerability of part of a later medieval earthen building at
Ambel (near Zaragoza, Spain), once a preceptory or monastic house belonging to the Military
Orders. An inspection of its morphology and materials coupled with the results of an extensive
campaign of static monitoring reveals marked structural inhomogeneities, the product of more
than a thousand years of construction, failure, and repair from the 10th century to the present
day. Building materials are inappropriately juxtaposed, there are discontinuities between construction
phases and fundamental concerns remain over the long-term stability of the structure.
The current condition of the structure is mainly influenced by structural discontinuities introduced
at the time of construction, the unintended consequences of repair and modification and the
material decay that has affected the base of the rammed earth walls. The overall findings of the
static monitoring show that there is no related damage, variations in crack widths are related to
the building seasonal cycle. While static analysis is an essential prerequisite before a suitable
maintenance program can be fully defined, this study argues that no evaluation of the structural
behavior of any historic building can afford to ignore its archaeological “biography” of modification
and repair.
Ziel der vorliegenden Untersuchung war es zu überprüfen, inwiefern eine Bemessungsvorschrift auf Basis von Teilsicherheitsbeiwerten im Lehmmauerwerksbau möglich ist. Bemessungsvorschriften im konventionellen Mauerwerksbau und im Lehmmauerwerksbau waren aufgrund des prinzipiell gleichen Tragverhaltens stets eng miteinander verknüpft. Die im Rahmen dieser Arbeit durchgeführten Druckversuche an Lehmmauermörtel, Lehmsteinen und Lehmmauerwerk konnten zeigen, dass die Streuungen der Festigkeiten von Lehmbaustoffen aufgrund der industriellen Herstellung sehr gering sind. Es konnte festgestellt werden, dass eine Bemessung auf Grundlage des semiprobabilistischen Bemessungskonzeptes in Anlehnung an den konventionellen Mauerwerksbau möglich ist. Neben einem ersten Vorschlag des Teilsicherheitsbeiwertes für den Lastzustand Druck werden Vorschläge für Prüfvorschriften im Lehmbau beziehungsweise deren Modifikation unterbreitet und künftige Forschungsschwerpunkte herausgearbeitet.
In diesem Beitrag werden numerische Analysen der mechanischen Eigenschaften von Lehmsteinmauerwerk unter Druck- und Schubbeanspruchung vorgestellt. Ergebnisse von einachsigen Druck- und Schubversuchen an Wandprüfkörpern lieferten dafür grundlegende mechanische Kennwerte im elastischen Bereich und im nichtelastischen Versagenszustand.Die Testergebnisse zeigten, dass verschiedene Vorlasten keinen wesentlichen Einfluss auf die Schubfestigkeit haben. Außerdem bestätigten die Ergebnisse das spröde Verhalten von Lehmsteinmauerwerk unter einachsiger Druckbelastung und es zeigte sich, dass das Versagen des Lehmsteinmauerwerks unter Scherbelastung entlang der Mörtelfugen erfolgt.
Die experimentellen Ergebnisse wurden verwendet, um das Verhalten von Lehmsteinmauerwerk durch nichtlineare Finite-Elemente-Methoden auf der Basis von Makro- und Mikro-Modellierungsansätzen zu simulieren. Entsprechendes konstitutives Materialverhalten und Zwängungen, die in den Versuchen durch die Art der Lasteinleitung in Form von Stahlprofilen und Stahlschuhen verursacht wurden, wurde in den Modellen berücksichtigt. Es wurde zuerst ein auf der Grundlage der experimentellen Daten kalibriertes Makro-Modell entwickelt, was zu einer brauchbaren Vorhersage des Versagensverhaltens der Mauerwerksprüfkörper führte. Die simulierten Spannungs-Dehnungs-Kurven, berechnet unter einachsiger Druckbelastung, zeigten eine gute Übereinstimmung mit den Ergebnissen der geprüften Mauerwerkskörper, sowohl im elastischen als auch im nichtelastischen Bereich. Ein vereinfachter Ansatz, basierend auf der Makro-Modellierung und einem homogenisierten Prüfkörper, kann für die Untersuchung größerer Tragsysteme oder ganzer Gebäude angewendet werden, wobei eine zufriedenstellende Genauigkeit bei geringerem Rechenaufwand erreicht wird. Obwohl das globale Spannungs-Dehnungs-Verhalten zufriedenstellend wiedergegeben wurde, ist ein solches nichtlineares isotropes Kontinuumsmodell für Lehmsteinmauerwerk nicht in vollem Umfang geeignet, um das bei den Versuchen beobachtete Rissbild an den Prüfkörpern zu simulieren.
Eine detailliertere Analyse des mechanischen Verhaltensdes Mauerwerks wurde mit einem Mikro-Modellierungsansatz durchgeführt. Das Modell, in dem ein Wandabschnitt nicht mehr homogenisiert, sondern in konkrete Stein- und Fugenelemente diskretisiert wird, hat sich insbesondere für das Verhalten von Lehmsteinmauerwerk unter Schubbeanspruchung als geeignet erwiesen. Die Auswertung der Spannungsverteilungen bei der nichtlinearen Analyse lieferte Informationen über die tatsächlichen Mechanismen der Lastübertragung zwischen Steinen und Mörtelfugen. Mit dem Mikro-Modell war es möglich, das nichtlineare Verhalten von Lehmsteinmauerwerk vorherzusagen. Es stellt somit ein geeignetes Werkzeug für die Untersuchung der Versagensmechanismen von Lehmsteinmauerwerk dar. Allerdings sind aufgrund der Komplexität des Modells für die Beschreibung der Stein/Mörtel-Schnittstelle und die hohe Anzahl an erforderlichen mechanischen Parametern umfassendere Untersuchungen notwendig. Die zukünftige Forschung wird sich daher einerseits auf die Verfeinerung der numerischen Modelle und andererseits auf die Simulation komplexer Belastungssituationen und Gebäudekomponenten konzentrieren.
The paper presents a comparison between different numerical modelling approaches aiming to simulate the in-plain behaviour of three types of earthen materials, namely adobe masonry, rammed earth and cob. For this purpose, uniaxial and diagonal compression tests were carried out, which allowed determining important mechanical parameters, such as compressive strength, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, shear strength and shear modulus. Furthermore, the tests allowed assessing the level of non-linear behaviour of the respective stress–strain relationships as well as the failure modes. The experimental results were then used for the calibration of numerical models (based on the finite element method) for simulating the non-linear behaviour of the earth materials under in-plane shear loading. Both macro- and micro-modelling approaches were considered for this purpose. The procedures adopted for model calibration established the reliability of various modelling strategies for the different loading conditions. The simplified Approach based on macromodelling shows a satisfactory accuracy and low computational costs. The results reproducing the uniaxial compression are in good correspondence with the post-elastic behaviour observed in the experimental campaign. The micro-modelling approach adopted to reproduce the shear behaviour, even with higher computational cost, represents a suitable tool to predict the adobe masonry and rammed earth collapse mechanisms.
The paper presents a comparison between different numerical modelling ap-proaches aiming to simulate the in-plain behaviour of three types of earthen materials, name-ly adobe masonry, rammed earth and cob. For this purpose, uniaxial and diagonal compression tests were carried out, which allowed determining important mechanical param-eters, such as compressive strength, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, shear strength and shear modulus. Furthermore, the tests allowed assessing the level of non-linear behaviour of the respective stress–strain relationships as well as the failure modes. The experimental results were then used for the calibration of numerical models (based on the finite element method) for simulating the non-linear behaviour of the earth materials under in-plane shear loading. Both macro- and micro-modelling approaches were considered for this purpose. The procedures adopted for model calibration established the reliability of various modelling strategies for the different loading conditions. The simplified approach based on macro-modelling shows a satisfactory accuracy and low computational costs. The results reproduc-ing the uniaxial compression are in good correspondence with the post-elastic behaviour ob-served in the experimental campaign. The micro-modelling approach adopted to reproduce the shear behaviour, even with higher computational cost, represents a suitable tool to pre-dict the adobe masonry and rammed earth collapse mechanisms
An experimental investigation was carried out to study the in-plane shear behaviour of rammed earth structural elements strengthened with polyester fabric strips. The original idea for the retrofitting with polyester fabric strips was to introduce a vertical element for walls in order to take up horizontal loads resulting in a shear response of the building element. It has to be considered that vertical slits into the walls for fixing the strips are points of weakness and have to be mitigated by the adhesive. In this case a base coat mortar was employed. Strengthened elements were tested to exploit the strength potential of earthen materials and to solve its lack of tensile strength, significantly improving not only strength but also ductility. As part of the study results of a testing campaign of unstrengthened structural elements were considered. Strengthened elements were tested in diagonal compression/shear and cyclic shear-compression. A unique reinforcement orientation was used. The results of these tests are presented in this paper and include the load-displacement behaviours, crack patterns, failure modes. The results showed that the reinforcement was the most effective under cyclic shear-compression tests, with increase in load and displacement capacity observed. Under diagonal compression the reinforcement did not likely contribute significantly to the shear resistance, due to a lack of embedment length of the strips.
An experimental investigation was carried out to study the in-plane shear behaviour of rammed earth structural elements strengthened with polyester fabric strips. The original idea for the retrofitting with polyester fabric strips was to introduce a vertical element for walls in order to take up horizontal loads resulting in a shear response of the building element. It has to be considered that vertical slits into the walls for fixing the strips are points of weakness and have to be mitigated by the adhesive. In this case a base coat mortar was employed. Strengthened elements were tested to exploit the strength potential of earthen materials and to solve its lack of tensile strength, significantly improving not only strength but also ductility. As part of the study results of a testing campaign of unstrengthened structural elements were considered. Strengthened elements were tested in diagonal compression/shear and cyclic shear-compression. A unique reinforcement orientation was used. The results of these tests are presented in this paper and include the load-displacement behaviours, crack patterns, failure modes. The results showed that the reinforcement was the most effective under cyclic shear-compression tests, with increase in load and displacement capacity observed. Under diagonal compression the reinforcement did not likely contribute significantly to the shear resistance, due to a lack of embedment length of the strips.
The paper investigates the dynamic characterisation along with the numerical model tuning and the seismic risk assessment of a monumental masonry tower in Italy namely the Santa Maria a Vico bell tower. Full-scale ambient vibration tests were performed under the impact of environmental loads. The technique of modal extraction in the frequency domain was applied. In-situ investigation survey was used in calibrating the refined 3D finite element model. The FEM tuning was carried out by varying the mechanical parameters and accounting for the restraint offered by the neighbouring buildings and the role of soil–structure interaction. The paper shows that the modal identification is a reliable technique that can be used in-situ for assessing the dynamic behaviour of monumental buildings. The tuned FEM model of the tower was usefully employed to determine the theoretical fundamental frequencies, which accurately fit the experiment data. Finally, the seismic performance of the bell tower was assessed using a non-linear static procedure based on the multi-modal pushover analysis and the capacity spectrum method. The results confirm that seismic events of moderate intensity can produce heavy damage to the masonry tower presented in this study.
The paper investigates the dynamic characterisation along with the numerical model tuning and the seismic risk assessment of a monumental masonry tower in Italy namely the Santa Maria a Vico bell tower. Full-scale ambient vibration tests were performed under the impact of environmental loads. The technique of modal extraction in the frequency domain was applied. In-situ investigation survey was used in calibrating the refined 3D finite element model. The FEM tuning was carried out by varying the mechanical parameters and accounting for the restraint offered by the neighbouring buildings and the role of soil–structure interaction. The paper shows that the modal identification is a reliable technique that can be used in-situ for assessing the dynamic behaviour of monumental buildings. The tuned FEM model of the tower was usefully employed to determine the theoretical fundamental frequencies, which accurately fit the experiment data. Finally, the seismic performance of the bell tower was assessed using a non-linear static procedure based on the multi-modal pushover analysis and the capacity spectrum method. The results confirm that seismic events of moderate intensity can produce heavy damage to the masonry tower presented in this study.
The paper presents a comparison between different numerical modelling approaches aiming to simulate the in-plain behaviour of three types of earthen materials, namely adobe masonry, rammed earth and cob. For this purpose, uniaxial and diagonal compression tests were carried out, which allowed determining important mechanical parameters, such as compressive strength, Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio, shear strength and shear modulus. Furthermore, the tests allowed assessing the level of non-linear behaviour of the respective stress strain relationships as well as the failure modes. The experimental results were then used for the calibration of numerical models (based on the finite element method) for simulating the non-linear behaviour of the earth materials under in-plane shear loading. Both macro- and micro-modelling approaches were considered for this purpose. The procedures adopted for model calibration established the reliability of various modelling strategies for the different loading conditions. The simplified Approach based on macromodelling shows a satisfactory accuracy and low computational costs. The results reproducing the uniaxial compression are in good correspondence with the post-elastic behaviour observed in the experimental campaign. The micro-modelling approach adopted to reproduce the shear behaviour, even with higher computational cost, represents a suitable tool to predict the adobe masonry and rammed earth collapse mechanisms.
The goal of the present study is to assess the feasibility to develop a first reliable database of materials parameters for Earth Block Masonry (EBM). The database is crucial when defining the materials safety factors. In the first part an experimental campaign of compressive tests were carried out on two types of earth block and two types of earth mortar. The results showed that the mean variation of the compressive strength was remarkably less than expected. This low variation is related to a production with high quality standards of the materials employed. In the second part a partial safety factor for EBM under uniaxial compression was determined through the reliability method. The results proved the reliability of a common calculation method for EBM based on partial safety factors following the current standards.
The recent experience of Italian seismic events provided wide observational information about typical behaviour, damage patterns and intrinsic vulnerability of monumental buildings. Evidence indicates that historical constructions are by far the most vulnerable from the seismic point of view. As a consequence, they demand for the definition of urgent strategies for the protection of cultural heritage from seismic hazard. The main goal of an in-depth knowledge of the structure should help to avoid inadequate, unsuitable or dangerous rehabilitation operations, as well as to select non-invasive and reversible techniques for the best exploitation of material and technology features. The definition of reliable models and methods for seismic risk assessment of historical constructions is today a very important topic. Typical problems of masonry structures concern aspects like inherent structural lacks, material degradation, geotechnical problems, buckling behaviour of slender elements and dynamic loading vulnerability. Modelling the mechanical behaviour of masonry may play an important role, due to both inherent material complexity and great scatter in mechanical properties. Effective procedures for the identification of the structural parameters from static and dynamic testing are thus required. In particular, dynamic measurements may be very useful for the identification of mechanical properties and soil restraints and, consequently, for the calibration of advanced numerical finite element models. The paper addresses two case studies of structural monitoring and seismic assessment of medieval masonry towers in Italy: the bell tower of Aversa and the bell tower of Capua. These monuments, placed in the Campania region, were monitored by means of full-scale environmental vibration testing. Measured responses are then used for modal identification with a typical finite element model updating technique based on vibration test results. Parameters optimization is carried out on the basis of a criterion which minimises a weighted error on modal properties. A satisfactory improvement in the determination of modal parameters is thus obtained, resulting in a close agreement between the modal properties observed in dynamic tests and those calculated from numerical model. Seismic assessment is finally performed based on nonlinear static analysis of the tower under multimodal distributions of lateral loads. Results from nonlinear analysis indicate the potential collapse mechanisms and evidence dangerous structural weakness which may play a role in the seismic vulnerability of the towers.
UHPC-AAC/CLC composite panels with self-cleaning properties. Materials and production technology
(2016)
The aim of this study is to show the development of a façade composite panel combining either an autoclaved aerated concrete or a cellular lightweight concrete insulation layer with a box-type external ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) supporting layer. The paper presents the materials characteristics of the different components and the production technology of the panel. The efficiency of surface modifications of the materials forming the external shell of the panel is reported. The activation of self-cleaning properties is described. The test results showed that the most efficient way to use the water-repellent agent is its application on the substrate before the concrete cast. Concerning the production technology, the preliminary studies showed more advantages of a twostep manufacturing procedure of the UHPC boxes than a one-step procedure.
The paper investigates the dynamic characterisation, the numerical model tuning and the seismic risk assessment of two monumental masonry towers located in Italy: the Capua Cathedral bell tower and the Aversa Cathedral bell tower. Full-scale ambient vibration tests under environmental loads are performed. The modal identification is carried out using techniques of modal extraction in the frequency domain. The refined 3D finite element model (FEM) is calibrated using the in situ investigation survey. The FEM tuning is carried out by varying the mechanical parameters and accounting for the restraint offered by the neighbouring buildings and the role of soil–structure interaction. The assessment of the seismic performance of the bell towers is carried out through a nonlinear static procedure based on the multi-modal pushover analysis and the capacity spectrum method. Through the discussion of the case studies, the paper shows that the modal identification is a reliable technique that can be used in situ for assessing the dynamic behaviour of monumental buildings. By utilising the tuned FEM of the towers, the theoretical fundamental frequencies are determined, which coincide with the previously determined experimental frequencies. The results from seismic performance assessment through a pushover analysis confirm that the masonry towers in this study are particularly vulnerable to strong damage even when subjected to seismic events of moderate intensity.
The purpose of this paper is to numerically simulate the in-plane behaviour of rammed earth walls under cyclic shear-compression tests. The experimental testing allowed obtaining the maximum horizontal loads, the displacement capacity and the level of non-linear behaviour of the respective loaddisplacement relationships as well as the failure modes. The calibration of the numerical model (finite element method) was carried out based on the experimental results. Within this framework, a micromodelling approach was considered. The behaviour of the rammed earth material was simulated using a total strain rotating crack model. A Mohr-Coulomb failure criterion was used to reproduce the behaviour of the interfaces between the layers.
Although the numerical results achieved a satisfactory agreement with the experimental results a sensitivity analysis of the parameters involved was performed. The sensitivity analysis aimed at determining which parameters of the model have a significant impact in the model’s results. As expected the sensitivity analysis pointed out that the sliding failure occurrence is mainly influenced by two parameters of the interface elements: the interface tensile strength fit and the friction angle u. Moreover the cohesion c and the layers thickness showed a limited effect on the shear behaviour. It should be noted that the results mentioned above are related to the cases where a significant level of vertical compressive stress r is employed.
This study presents diagnostic techniques to assess the structural vulnerability of earthen buildings. Medieval structures at Ambel (near Zaragoza, Spain), once a preceptory or monastic house belonging to the Military Orders, provide a useful case study. After more than a thousand years of construction, failure and repair from the 10th century to the present day, Ambel preceptory today is characterised by marked inhomogeneities: construction materials and structural typologies are juxtaposed, with structural discontinuities at the interfaces between construction phases. This paper argues that, while static analysis is an essential prerequisite before a suitable maintenance program can be defined, no evaluation of the structural behaviour of any historic building can ignore an understanding of the building’s history.
The study presents the results from the development of a grouting material based on hydrated lime with addition of pozzolana, which is referred to as hydraulic lime, suitable for the repair of cracks in a variety of earthen building techniques. The goal was to develop a material also compatible with earthen structures exposed to dynamic loads. The grouting mortar was designed to be adaptable in strength properties and at the same time to have sufficient robustness for preparation and use on the construction site.
Results showed a satisfactory performance of the grout concerning fresh and hardened mortar properties as well as injectability.
UHPC-AAC/CLC composite panels with self-cleaning properties. Materials and production technology
(2016)
The aim of this study is to show the development of a façade composite panel combining either an autoclaved aerated concrete or a cellular lightweight concrete insulation layer with a box-type external ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) supporting layer. The paper presents the materials characteristics of the different components and the production technology of the panel. The efficiency of surface modifications of the materials forming the external shell of the panel is reported. The activation of self-cleaning properties is described. The test results showed that the most efficient way to use the water-repellent agent is its application on the substrate before the concrete cast.
Concerning the production technology, the preliminary studies showed more advantages of a two-step manufacturing procedure of the UHPC boxes than a one-step procedure.
The goal of the present study is to assess the feasibility to develop a first reliable database of materials parameters for Earth Block Masonry (EBM). The database is crucial when defining the materials safety factors. In the first part an experimental campaign of compressive tests were carried out on two types of earth block and two types of earth mortar. The results showed that the mean variation of the compressive strength was remarkably less than expected. This low variation is related to a production with high quality standards of the materials employed. In the second part a partial safety factor for EBM under uniaxial compression was determined through the reliability method. The results proved the reliability of a common calculation method for EBM based on partial safety factors following the current standards.
The paper presents a comparison between two different numerical modelling approaches aimed to simulate the in-plain behaviour of rammed earth walls, namely under axial, diagonal and cyclic shearcompression loading. In the first part of the study the mechanical characterisation of wallets tested under uniaxial compression and diagonal compression and walls tested under in-plane cyclic shear-compression loading is presented. The results were used to implement and validate the finite element simulations.
The numerical modelling of the rammed earth samples tested is then discussed in the second part. A non-linear constitutive law based on the total strain rotating crack model (TSRCM) was employed as implemented in the DIANA® software. The aim of the numerical analyses presented here is to simulate the behaviour of rammed earth under different inplane loading conditions. For the wallets, tests under static loading both macro- and micro-modelling
approaches were considered for the simulation of the experimental tests. For the walls subjected to cyclic loading only the micro-modelling approach was applied for the simulation of the experimental tests.
The respective FEM model was calibrated with the experimental results. The rammed earth layers were represented by continuum elements, the contact surfaces between layers by interface elements. This approach allowed assessing the influence of the apparent weakness of the interfaces between layers on the shear behaviour of rammed earth.
The goal of the numerical simulation of the cyclic tests was to establish the adequacy of common analytical methods (e. g. used for masonry) applied to the analysis of rammed earth. Rammed earth exhibits brittle characteristics similar to masonry materials and is used in geometrical typologies, such as walls, common in masonry construction.
Die Instandsetzung von Lehmbauwerken ist keine einfache Aufgabe. Der Baustoff Lehm hat vergleichsweise schwache mechanische Eigenschaften. Er ist außerdem anfällig gegenüber eindringendem Wasser, wobei er sehr schnell seinen Zusammenhalt verlieren kann, wenn gewisse Feuchtegehalte überschritten werden. Instandsetzungskonzepte für Bauwerke aus solchen Materialien stellen deshalb eine Herausforderung dar. Historische Lehmbauwerke zeigen oft Schäden in Form von starker Rissbildung, die durch statische oder dynamische Lasten hervorgerufen sein kann. Häufig werden solche Risse wegen mangelnder Fachkenntnis und / oder fehlender Techniken nur ungenügend instandgesetzt. Die Rissinstandsetzung mit Einpressmörteln birgt insbesondere für Lehmbaustoffe eine Herausforderung und erfordert spezifische Anforderungen an den Einpressmörtel, wie z. B. niedriger Wassergehalt, gutes Wasserrückhaltevermögen, niedriges Schwindmaß, an das instandzusetzende Material angepasste Festigkeit und E-Modul sowie eine gute Haftung am Lehmuntergrund. Zusätzlich müssen Einpressmörtel eine ausreichende Fließfähigkeit aufweisen, um kleine Risse und Hohlräume ohne Entmischung zu füllen. Deshalb muss das rheologische Verhalten des Einpressmörtels gut untersucht und kontrolliert werden, um die gewünschte Wirkung zu erzielen. Die Rissinstandsetzung bei Lehmbauwerken erfolgt traditionell durch manuelles Stopfen mit einem Mörtel. Natürlich können auf diese Weise nur Risse mit einer großen Breite verfüllt werden. Ein weiterer Nachteil ist, dass Risse, die durch dickere Wände verlaufen, nicht vollständig mit den für das Stopfen verwendeten Werkzeugen erreicht werden können. Kalkgebundene Einpressmörtel für Lehmbaustoffe werden gewöhnlich für die Wiederbefestigung von Putzen und weniger aus statisch-konstruktiven Gründen eingesetzt.
Aufgrund der Eigenschaften von Lehm, müssen Einpressmörtel auf Basis von hydraulischem Kalk nach EN 459-1 [4] wesentliche Anforderungen an eine Reihe von Eigenschaften erfüllen, die sich auf die Verträglichkeit, die Dauerhaftigkeit und insbesondere die Injektionsfähigkeit beziehen. Das Ziel der vorgestellten Untersuchungen war einen Einpressmörtel zu herzustellen, mit dem die strukturelle Kontinuität in Lehmmauerwerk oder anderen massiven Lehmwänden (Stampf- und Wellerlehm) durch Rissverpressung wiederhergestellt werden kann. Das Material bestand aus Kalkhydrat mit Zusätzen von Puzzolanen und Kalksteinfüller.
In-plane shear behaviour of earthen materials panels strengthened with polyester fabric strips
(2016)
An experimental investigation was carried out to study the in-plane shear behaviour of earthen material Panels strengthened with polyester fabric strips. Strengthened panels were developed to exploit the strength potential of earthen materials and to solve its lack of tensile strength, significantly improving not only strength but also ductility. Three earthen materials were considered: cob, earth block masonry (EBM) and rammed earth (RE). As first approach the strengthening configuration, based on different adhesive materials, was tested only for cob panels. As part of the study the results of a big testing campaign of unstrengthened Panels were considered. Seven strengthened panels were tested in diagonal compression/shear.A unique reinforcement orientation was used. The results of these tests are presented in this paper, and include the load-displacement behaviours, crack patterns, failure modes. The results showed that the reinforcement was the most effective in EBM panels, with increase in strength and ductility observed. In RE and cob panels the reinforcement did not likely contribute significantly to the shear resistance, due to a lack of embedment length of the strips. Instead, in EBM it was likely that the vertical reinforcement acted in tension to restrain shear induced dilation and to restrain sliding.
In-plane shear behaviour of earthen materials panels strengthened with polyester fabric strips
(2016)
An experimental investigation was carried out to study the in-plane shear behaviour of earthen material panels strengthened with polyester fabric strips. Strengthened panels were developed to exploit the strength potential of earthen materials and to solve its lack of tensile strength, significantly improving not only strength but also ductility. Three earthen materials were considered: cob, earth block masonry (EBM) and rammed earth (RE). As first approach the strengthening configuration, based on different adhesive materials, was tested only for cob panels. As part of the study the results of a big testing campaign of unstrengthened Panels were considered. Seven strengthened panels were tested in diagonal compression/shear.A unique reinforcement orientation was used. The results of these tests are presented in this paper, and include the load-displacement behaviours, crack patterns, failure modes. The results showed that the reinforcement was the most effective in EBM panels, with increase in strength and ductility observed. In RE and cob panels the reinforcement did not likely contribute significantly to the shear resistance, due to a lack of embedment length of the strips. Instead, in EBM it was likely that the vertical reinforcement acted in tension to restrain shear induced dilation and to restrain sliding.
This paper presents an innovative way to combine an external ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) supporting layer with an insulation layer of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) or cellular lightweight concrete (CLC) to create light-weight façade elements, which are improved in functionality and in energy efficiency. The durability of the façade elements is improved by developing UHPC with self-cleaning properties. One approach is based on the photocatalytic activation of the external UHPC shell by incorporation of TiO2 particles. The second approach consists of the modification of the UHPC surface by micro structuring in combination with the application of water-repellent agents to create durable super hydrophobicity. The current results obtained from laboratory testing are promising and demonstrate the feasibility of the approaches.
Der Beitrag präsentiert einen Vergleich zwischen verschiedenen numerischen Modellierungsansätzen die dazu dienen sollen, das flächige Verhalten von Stampflehmwänden, genauer unter axialer, diagonaler und zyklischer Scherkraftbelastung zu simulieren.
Im ersten Teil der Studie werden die mechanischen Eigenschaften der Wandscheiben, die unter einachsiger und diagonaler Druckbelastung getestet wurde und der Wände, die in flächigen, zyklischen Scherkraftbelastung getestet wurden, dargestellt. Die Ergebnisse werden verwendet, um die Finite Elemente Simulation anzuwenden und zu bewerten. Die numerische Modellierung der getesteten Stampflehmproben
wird dann im zweiten Teil diskutiert. Ein nichtlineares Materialgesetz basierend auf dem Gesamtdehnungsrissmodell (total strain rotating crack model – TSRCM) wurde, wie durch die Software DIANA® verwendet, angesetzt. Ziel dieser hier präsentierten numerischen Analyse ist es, das Verhalten von Stampflehm unter verschiedenen Lasteinflüssen
zu simulieren. Für die Wandscheiben wurden Versuche unter linearer Last, sowohl in Makro- als auch Mikromodellansätze für die Simulation der experimentellen Versuche gewählt. Für die Wände, welche zyklischer Belastung ausgesetzt waren, wurden nur die Mikromodellansätze für die Simulation der experimentellen Versuche gewählt. Das betreffende FEM Modell wurde mit den experimentellen Ergebnissen kalibriert. Die Stampflehmlagen wurden mit durchgehenden Elementen, die Kontaktflächen zwischen den Lagen mit Oberflächenelementen repräsentiert.
Dieser Ansatz erlaubte die Bewertung des Einflusses der auftretenden Schwächung in den Oberflächen zwischen den Lagen auf das Scherverhalten des Stampflehms. Ziel der numerischen Simulation von zyklischen Versuchen war es, die Eignung allgemeiner Analysemethoden (z. B. für Mauerwerk) für die Analyse von Stampflehm einzuführen und anzuwenden. Stampflehm zeigt brüchige Eigenschaften vergleichbar zu Mauerwerksbaustoffen und wird in geometrischen Formen, wie Wänden, genutzt, die im Mauerwerk üblich sind.
Die Instandsetzung von Lehmbauwerken ist keine einfache Aufgabe. Der Baustoff Lehm hat vergleichsweise schwache mechanische Eigenschaften. Er ist außerdem anfällig gegenüber eindringendem Wasser, wobei er sehr schnell seinen Zusammenhalt verlieren kann, wenn gewisse Feuchtegehalte überschritten werden. Instandsetzungskonzepte für Bauwerke aus solchen Materialien stellen deshalb eine Herausforderung dar. Historische Lehmbauwerke zeigen oft Schäden in Form von starker Rissbildung, die durch statische oder dynamische Lasten hervorgerufen sein kann. Häufig werden solche Risse wegen mangelnder Fachkenntnis und / oder fehlender Techniken nur ungenügend instandgesetzt. Die Rissinstandsetzung mit Einpressmörteln birgt insbesondere für Lehmbaustoffe eine Herausforderung und erfordert spezifische Anforderungen an den Einpressmörtel, wie z. B. niedriger Wassergehalt, gutes Wasserrückhaltevermögen, niedriges Schwindmaß, an das instandzusetzende Material angepasste Festigkeit und E-Modul sowie eine gute Haftung am Lehmuntergrund. Zusätzlich müssen Einpressmörtel eine ausreichende Fließfähigkeit aufweisen, um kleine Risse und Hohlräume ohne Entmischung zu füllen. Deshalb muss das rheologische Verhalten des Einpressmörtels gut untersucht und kontrolliert werden, um die gewünschte Wirkung zu erzielen.
Die Rissinstandsetzung bei Lehmbauwerken erfolgt traditionell durch manuelles Stopfen mit einem Mörtel. Natürlich können auf diese Weise nur Risse mit einer großen Breite verfüllt werden. Ein weiterer Nachteil ist, dass Risse, die durch dickere Wände verlaufen, nicht vollständig mit den für das Stopfen verwendeten Werkzeugen erreicht werden können. Kalkgebundene Einpressmörtel für Lehmbaustoffe werden gewöhnlich für die Wiederbefestigung von Putzen und weniger aus statisch-konstruktiven Gründen eingesetzt Aufgrund der Eigenschaften von Lehm, müssen Einpressmörtel auf Basis von hydraulischem Kalk nach EN 459-1 wesentliche Anforderungen an eine Reihe von Eigenschaften erfüllen, die sich auf die Verträglichkeit, die Dauerhaftigkeit und insbesondere die Injektionsfähigkeit beziehen. Das Ziel der vorgestellten Untersuchungen war einen Einpressmörtel zu herzustellen, mit dem die strukturelle Kontinuität in Lehmmauerwerk oder anderen massiven Lehmwänden (Stampf- und Wellerlehm) durch Rissverpressung wiederhergestellt werden kann. Das Material bestand aus Kalkhydrat mit Zusätzen von Puzzolanen und Kalksteinfüller.
The repair of earthen structures is not an easy task. Earth as a construction material has comparatively weak mechanical properties. It is also susceptible towards liquid water, were it can lose cohesion very quickly if certain moisture contents are exceeded. Repair concepts of structures built with such materials are therefore challenging. Historical earthen structures often exhibit damages in form of extensive cracking, which may have been caused by static or dynamic loads. Frequently these cracks are insufficiently or inappropriately repaired because of lack of knowledge and / or technology. In particular, the behaviour of crack repair by grouting poses a challenge in earthen materials and demands specific requirements for the grouting mortar, such as low water content, good water retention, low shrinkage. Grouting materials require additional specifications such as compatible strengths and Young’s modulus as well as good adhesion to the earthen substrates. In addition, grouts have to be sufficiently flowable to fill small cracks and voids without segregation or bleeding. Therefore, the rheological behaviour has to be well understood and controlled to gain the desired effects.
The repair of cracks in earthen buildings is traditionally done by stuffing manually mortar into the gap. Naturally, this method is only usable for cracks with large widths. Another disadvantage is that cracks going through thicker walls cannot be completely reached by the tools used for stuffing the mortar into the crack. Lime based grouts for earthen materials were usually used for re-attachment of plasters but less for structural reasons. Due to the nature of earthen materials grouts based on formulated or hydraulic lime (according to the definition in EN 459-1) have to meet considerable demands on a variety of properties, which are related to compatibility, durability and in particular to the ability of being injected. The goal of this study was to create a grout, which can be used to re-establish structural continuity in cracked earthen masonry or other massive earth walls (rammed earth and cob) with the focus on grouting cracks. The grout material was based on hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) with additions of pozzolana and lime stone filler.
In the beginning of the 1980s earth building has undergone a renaissance, which nowadays leads to an increasing use of load-bearing earth constructions and in particular, earth block masonry. At present, there are no common structural standards according to the semi-probabilistic design concept, which is the state-of-the-art in European standards.
A solid database is needed for the determination of the partial safety factor on the resistance side. Therefore, compressive strength tests were carried out with two types of earth blocks and two types of prefabricated earth mortar. The evaluation showed that the variation of the compressive strength was remarkably less than expected, which seems to indicate high quality standards of the components earth block and mortar with regard to industrial production.
On the basis of these results and together with the reliability method, a partial safety factor for earth block masonry subjected to compression was determined. The main aim of the research was the development of a first valid database for material parameters of earth block masonry with particular regard to statistical characteristics. The results showed that a common calculation method for earth block masonry based on partial safety factors following the valid masonry construction standard is feasible.
The paper presents an experimental program aiming at assessing the mechanical performance of rammed earth walls, namely under compression and shear loading. Axial compression and diagonal compression tests were carried out for this purpose, which allowed determining important mechanical parameters, such as compressive strength, Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, shear strength and shear modulus. Furthermore, it allowed assessing the level of non-linear behaviour of the respective stress–strain relationships as well as the failure modes. The experimental results were then used in the calibration of numerical models (finite element method) for simulating the non-linear behaviour of rammed earth under shear loading. Both macro- and micro modelling approaches were considered for this purpose. The total strain rotating crack model was used to simulate the behaviour of the rammed earth material, while the Mohr–Coulomb failure criterion was used to simulate the behaviour of interfaces between layers. In general, the numerical models achieved good agreement with the experimental results, but uncertainties related to the definition of the input parameters required to perform a sensitivity analysis. The compressive strength, the Poisson's ratio, the tensile strength and the tensile fracture energy revealed to be the most important parameters in the analyses.
ln this paper a modelling approach is presented to reproduce the mechanical behaviour of sandwich panels via finite element analysis. Two types of panels were investigated in this scope of work. The first sandwich element was a textile reinforced concrete (TRC) panel with cellular lightweight concrete insulation and the second configuration was an ultra-high performances concrete (UHPC) panel with aerated autoclaved concrete insulation. The goal was to obtain a reliable numerical strategy that represents a reasonable compromise in terms of sufficient accuracy of the element characteristics and the computational costs. The results show the possibility of describing the composite action in a full sandwich panel. The achieved modelling approach will later be used for the optimization of TRC and UHPC panels in terms of minimizing the thickness, identifying the number and location of connectors, as well as evaluating varying anchorage Systems.
The current paper focuses on the determination of reliable numerical models of earth block masonry wallettes under different loading conditions. Uniaxial compression and diagonal compression tests were performed. Experimental behaviour was modelled with a non-linear model able to describe the cracking behaviour. The simplified approach based on macro-modelling shows a satisfactory accuracy and low computational costs. The results reproducing the uniaxial compression are in good correspondence with the post-elastic behaviour observed in the experimental campaign. The micro-modelling approach adopted to reproduce the shear behaviour, even with high computational cost, represents a suitable tool to predict the masonry collapse mechanism.
Ziel der Untersuchungen war es, das Verhalten von Verpressankern zu analysieren, die üblicherweise zur Verstärkung der Eckverbindung von Mauerwerkswänden eingesetzt werden. Im Fokus der Untersuchungen stand die Leistungsfähigkeit der Ankersysteme mit Bezug auf die Versagensarten und auf dem Traglastvermögen der Anker bei Ankerauszug durch gleichförmige Zugbelastung, die als Vereinfachung für die dynamische Belastung durch ein Erdbeben aufgebracht wurde. Die hier dargestellten Untersuchungen und Ergebnisse stellen eine Zusammenfassung von Arbeiten dar, über die bereits in Beiträgen berichtet wurde, die zum einen die Prüfverfahren für verstärkte Eckverbindungen von Gebäuden aus Mauerwerk und zum anderen die Verbundfestigkeit von Verpressankern in Wänden aus verschiedenen Lehmbautechniken zum Inhalt hatten. Sie geben dennoch einen Überblick über die Hauptversagensmechanismen von Verpressankersystemen und erweitern den Wissensstand bezüglich der Prüfung von Ankersystemen für Ziegel- und Lehmsteinmauerwerk. Darüber hinaus wird eine Vorgehensweise vorgeschlagen, die es ermöglicht, die Traglast von Verpressankern auf Basis experimenteller Untersuchungen abzuschätzen.
In this paper results of the experimental testing performed on brick masonry and earth block masonry are presented. The paper outlines the development of the testing procedures for two different types of anchors. For this purpose, two experimental campaigns of pull-out tests on masonry corner connections strengthened by metallic rod grouted were carried out. Experimental results proved that the implemented testing procedures are suitable to determine the most recurring failure modes of the anchor pins. Moreover, a procedure is proposed to estimate the capacity of grouted anchor pins based on experimental studies.
The awareness of the environmental impact of the building sector is increasing. Steel reinforced concrete is the most commonly used construction material, though with a high-embodied energy and carbon footprint. Large environmental gains may arise if an alternative to steel reinforced concrete is developed. In this context, ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) materials are shown to be promising alternatives with advantages such as lower embodied energy and reduced environmental impact. Predictions suggest that UHPC composite elements for building envelopes could have other benefits such as an increased service life, optimised use of building area due to thinner elements and minimised maintenance due to the absence of reinforcement or use of non-corrosive reinforcing materials such as carbon fibres. In the framework of the H-HOUSE project funded by the European Commission, composite elements are developed. The aim is to create facade panels combining an autoclaved aerated concrete or cellular lightweight concrete insulation layer with an external UHPC supporting layer. To enhance occupant comfort and health, hygroscopic materials that are capable to buffer indoor air humidity shall be applied to the inside of such elements. Indoor air humidity levels are expected to be more stable, which shall subsequently improve the indoor climate and minimise potential decay to the construction.
The awareness of the environmental impact of the building sector is increasing. Steel reinforced concrete is the most commonly used construction material, though with a high-embodied energy and carbon footprint. Large environmental gains may arise if an alternative to steel reinforced concrete is developed. In this context, ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) materials are shown to be promising alternatives with advantages such as lower embodied energy and reduced environmental impact. Predictions suggest that UHPC composite elements for building envelopes could have other benefits such as an increased service life, optimised use of building area due to thinner elements and minimised maintenance due to the absence of reinforcement or use of non-corrosive reinforcing materials such as carbon fibres. In the framework of the H-HOUSE project funded by the European Commission, composite elements are developed. The aim is to create facade panels combining an autoclaved aerated concrete or cellular lightweight concrete insulation layer with an external UHPC supporting layer. To enhance occupant comfort and health, hygroscopic materials that are capable to buffer indoor air humidity shall be applied to the inside of such elements. Indoor air humidity levels are expected to be more stable, which shall subsequently improve the indoor climate and minimise potential decay to the construction.
From the last decades the earth construction has a growing interest due to the high sustainability (low C02 emissions), thermal and acoustic performance, fire resistance and cost of the raw material (soil). In fact, earth construction can constitute a feasible solution for a more sustainable construction industry in developed countries. Nowadays the research areas on earthen construction focus from one side on the improvement of the materials for new buildings, on the other side on the Conservation of existing architectural heritage.
Historical earthen buildings are often damaged by static or dynamic loads in form of extensive cracking. All too often these cracks are insufficiently or inappropriately repaired, if at all, because of lack of knowledge and/or technology. In particular, the behaviour of crack repair by grouting poses a challenge in earthen materials and demands specific requirements for the grouting mortar, such as low water content, good water retention, low shrinkage, etc. Cracks in earthen construction can be repaired by grouting to re-establish structural continuity, and can also be used to consolidate voids and gaps, or as a complement to other strengthening techniques such as the introduction of tie-rods.
In the framework of earthen materials for new constructions, the major drawback is that traditional earthen materials are typically considered as non-standard. The great variability and heterogeneity of the properties of the available soils, the lack of quality control in the manufacturing of the earthen materials and in the construction process can be pointed out as the main reasons behind this Situation. Furthermore, only few countries issued Standards and recommendations supporting earth construction, discouraging the design of earth construction by the technical community in countries where these documents are absent.