Publicação
Alternative bio-stabilisers for thin earth building elements
| Resumo: | The growing demand for circular and low-carbon construction has renewed interest in earth-based building materials. In addition to its excellent hygrothermal properties, earth is an abundant, locally sourced, natural, and non-toxic material, fully recyclable when left unstabilised. While earthen constructions have been widely used in thick mass assemblies, their application in thin construction elements remains largely unexplored. Existing thin materials, such as MDF, OSB, and gypsum boards, are energy-intensive and often rely on synthetic resins and binders, which contribute to environmental degradation and health risks. This study addresses this gap by exploring the use of biopolymers, specifically locust bean gum (LBG) and sodium alginate (ALG), as stabilisers for thin pressed earth elements. The research aims to assess the feasibility of producing thin earthen materials by understanding the binding mechanisms of biopolymers. By establishing optimal water-biopolymer ratios and performing mechanical and microscopic analyses, this work provides preliminary insights into the potential of earth-based materials for non-structural building applications. The results catalyse the use of natural earth materials stabilised with bio-based agents as an alternative to carbon intensive materials and methods. |
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| Autores principais: | Turco, Chiara |
| Outros Autores: | Carcassi, O. B.; Teixeira, Elisabete Rodrigues; Mateus, Ricardo; Ben-Alon, Lola |
| Assunto: | bio-stabilisers thin earth building elements sustainable construction |
| Ano: | 2025 |
| País: | Portugal |
| Tipo de documento: | artigo |
| Tipo de acesso: | acesso aberto |
| Instituição associada: | Universidade do Minho |
| Idioma: | inglês |
| Origem: | RepositóriUM - Universidade do Minho |
| Resumo: | The growing demand for circular and low-carbon construction has renewed interest in earth-based building materials. In addition to its excellent hygrothermal properties, earth is an abundant, locally sourced, natural, and non-toxic material, fully recyclable when left unstabilised. While earthen constructions have been widely used in thick mass assemblies, their application in thin construction elements remains largely unexplored. Existing thin materials, such as MDF, OSB, and gypsum boards, are energy-intensive and often rely on synthetic resins and binders, which contribute to environmental degradation and health risks. This study addresses this gap by exploring the use of biopolymers, specifically locust bean gum (LBG) and sodium alginate (ALG), as stabilisers for thin pressed earth elements. The research aims to assess the feasibility of producing thin earthen materials by understanding the binding mechanisms of biopolymers. By establishing optimal water-biopolymer ratios and performing mechanical and microscopic analyses, this work provides preliminary insights into the potential of earth-based materials for non-structural building applications. The results catalyse the use of natural earth materials stabilised with bio-based agents as an alternative to carbon intensive materials and methods. |
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