Bio-based Binders for Rammed Earth Construction

Experimental research exploring the use of historic binders for future material implementation

Master thesis (2024)

Authors

F.C.I. Konijnenberg Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

O. Ioannou Architectural Technology - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
W.J. Quist Heritage & Architecture - Architecture and the Built Environment (graduation committee member)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
More Info
expand_more

Published Date

25-06-2024

Language

English

Reuse Rights

Other than for strictly personal use, it is not permitted to download, forward or distribute the text or part of it, without the consent of the author(s) and/or copyright holder(s), unless the work is under an open content license such as Creative Commons.

Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

This research discusses the use of historic bio-based binders for possible material enhancement of rammed earth constructions in Northwestern Europe. Potential material enhancements of rammed earth are concluded by considering the research scope and a summary of the history of rammed earth. With the use of an overview and a matrix of potential (historic) bio-based binders, the most suitable binders for material enhancement are concluded. Experimental research is conducted using samples containing beet sugar products and samples containing chicken egg. Additionally, samples containing cement and samples without any binder are tested, to compare the changes in the material behaviour. For this testing, testing methods are designed. The research findings suggest that dehydrated chicken egg albumen as a binder significantly improves rammed earth material in resistance against weathering (water, frost, abrasion).