Durability of rammed earth blocks

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The rammed earth has become the newest trend owing to its energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and sustainable approach. The recent research has modernized rammed earth construction by using cement treatment to improve its strength and durability. However, the non-compensable damages to the environment associated with cement production and application pose significant arguments against its widespread use in rammed earth construction. Therefore, it is necessary to provide alternative materials with same or better properties, and with reduced environmental and energy impacts. Fly ash is recognized as an environmentally friendly material because it is a by-product and has low embodied energy. The development of a new additive for cement replacement in rammed earth, using pulp mill fly ash with an alkaline activator, can have major impact on sustainable construction industry by substantial reduction in carbon footprint. It can also become an effective strategy of recycling and reusing fly ash from pulp and paper mills thereby minimizing environmental burden of landfills.Our partner organization is Innovative Earth Inc, who intends to identify the potential use of pulp mill fly ash as partial substitution for cement in rammed earth, in view of promoting and implementing sustainable and eco-friendly construction strategies. In collaboration with Innovative Earth Inc, this project aims on developing inert value added secondary product from pulp mill fly ash to be used as binder in rammed earth in order to improved strength and durability properties. This will benefit the construction company to expand their business, create job opportunities and contribute in Canadian economy.