BOUW GROND
Towards reproducible compressed earth blocks from Rotterdam excavation soil through material led mix design and the identification of key production parameters influencing mechanical performance
M.L. Roßdeutscher (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
T. Bristogianni – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
M. Bilow – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
More Info
expand_more
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.
Abstract
This thesis investigates how locally excavated soil from Rotterdam could be translated into reproducible unstabilised compressed earth blocks rather than remaining within low-value fill or disposal pathways. Instead of treating production as a universal recipe, it examines how the behaviour and characterisation of a local soil inform its processing, mix composition and assessment. To address this, the study combines a literature review with laboratory testing. The experimental work included geotechnical identification, particle-size analysis, mineralogical and environmental assessment, followed by specimen production, compaction trials, and compressive-strength testing.
On this basis, controlled mixtures were developed to investigate workability, optimise composition and evaluate the influence of key parameters such as compaction moisture, particle-size distribution and press loads. The study establishes the general suitability of the excavated soil, while identifying main limitations, processing constraints, and the governing parameters for mechanical performance.