Natural additives and biopolymers for raw earth construction stabilization – a review

The importance of earthen construction materials lies in their widespread availability combined with a low embodied energy. Chemical stabilizers are commonly used to improve durability and mechanical performance. main drawbacks the high environmental impact production, loss recyclability, possible reduction raw earth’s hygrothermal properties. Historically stabilization was achieved by use different kinds fibers, agricultural wastes, biopolymers incorporated into matrix. purpose present study is review state art investigations on influence natural additives for materials, promote facilitate future research this field. More than 50 independent studies have been considered, including types earth constructions: plasters, adobe, compressed blocks rammed earth. To enlarge opportunity investigating as stabilizers, some about soil included review. Results show that recycled waste material additive promising direction it can provide sustainable alternative chemical stabilization.