Earth Brick - Stabilized
Compressed stabilised earth blocks (CSEB) made from subsoil, sand, and a small percentage of cement or lime (typically 4-8%), mechanically compressed at high pressure (approximately 21 MPa / 3000 psi) to produce dense, durable masonry units. Unlike traditional adobe, CSEBs achieve higher compressive strength (5-10+ MPa), improved water resistance, and consistent dimensional accuracy through mechanical pressing. The stabilising agent (Portland cement, lime, or combinations) creates a permanent chemical bond that resists moisture penetration and weathering. Blocks are cured (not fired) for 28 days, using approximately 1/5 to 1/15 the energy of fired clay bricks. In Australia, CSEB construction is governed by HB 195-2002 (The Australian Earth Building Handbook) published by Standards Australia, with NCC compliance typically achieved through performance solutions. CSIRO fire testing has demonstrated 4-hour fire resistance ratings for 250 mm earth block walls. Australian manufacturers include Compressed Earth Bricks Australia (CEBA) and Mudtec, with blocks tested for erosion resistance and compressive strength per HB 195.
- Residential load-bearing walls
- Bushfire-zone construction
- Sustainable housing projects
- Garden and landscape walls
Compressed earth block technology originated in the 1950s with the development of the CINVA-Ram manual press in Colombia by Raul Ramirez. This simple lever-operated press made it possible to produce consistent, high-density earth blocks without firing, opening up earth construction to systematic, repeatable building practices. The technology spread globally through development agencies and was adopted across Africa, Asia, South America, and Australia. In Australia, CSIRO conducted significant research into earth block construction in the 1970s-1980s, including fire resistance testing that demonstrated 4-hour ratings. Standards Australia published HB 195-2002 (The Australian Earth Building Handbook) to provide formal guidance. Modern developments include hydraulic and motorised presses achieving higher pressures and production rates, interlocking block systems that eliminate mortar requirements, optimised soil-cement ratios for improved strength and durability, and alternative stabilisers (geopolymers, lime-pozzolan, rice husk ash) to reduce Portland cement content and embodied carbon. The Auroville Earth Institute in India has been a global leader in CSEB research and training since the 1980s. In Australia, companies like CEBA and Mudtec now produce commercially available blocks with consistent quality assurance.
DISCLAIMER: This specification document is generated from the CLAD Materials Atlas Database. Information is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional engineering advice. Values are typical and may vary by batch, manufacturer, and production run. Verify suitability for specific project applications independently.