Clay, which has been used for architectural purposes for thousands of years, has garnered renewed attention in recent years as a healthy, environmentally friendly, and economical building material. An impressive number of buildings have been constructed not only in hot and dry regions but also in the colder climates of Europe and North America. Technical innovations such as prefabricated rammed earth elements, earth panels, and 3D-printed earth walls make it easier to use this sustainable material.
This handbook, now in its fifth, revised edition, describes rammed earth construction techniques. The physical properties and characteristics are explained in a practical manner: With appropriate moisture protection, earthen structures are very durable, and combining them with wood or straw, in particular, opens up a wide range of design possibilities. Thirty international building examples illustrate the potential applications of this fully recyclable material.
