Physical characterization of bio-composite CEB stabilized with Argan nut shell and cement

Compressed earth blocks (CEB) are a well-established constructional material in the world's less developed countries. The most common weakness of earthen construction is their high rate of deterioration under water. The aim purpose of this work is to upgrade the behavior of stabilized blocks of earth blocks against water attacks by studying experimentally the properties of the composite that is made from CEB and vegetable wastes in Morocco: Argan nut shell powder (ANS). The water absorption behavior has been estimated for the new bio-composite. The tested natural load contents are: 0%, 2%, 4% and 6%. To examine the effect of chemical stabilization on the new material, dosages of 0%, 5% and 6% of cement was also tested. This work highlights the procedure of soil-stabilization and the contributions of soil's structure during stabilization. It investigated the quasi-static process of conventional block compaction (slow-applied pressure) and established the effects obtained from the alteration of the components (ANS and cement) and the compaction energy (2 MPa and 4 MPa) on the dry density of CEBs. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.