Discussion of "Earth concrete. Stabilization revisited". (April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marsh, Alastair T.M.; Heath, Andrew; Walker, Pete; Reddy, B.V. Venkatarama; Habert, Guillaume
• Is Part Of: Cement and concrete research. Volume 130(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-04
• Subjects: Cement stabilisation -- Earth construction -- Life cycle analysis; Cement -- Periodicals; Cement -- Research -- Periodicals; Concrete -- Periodicals; Concrete -- Research -- Periodicals; Ciment -- Périodiques; Béton -- Périodiques; Cement; Concrete; Periodicals; 620.135
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cemconres.2020.105991
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0008-8846

Abstract

Abstract: Using metrics is an informative approach to compare the effectiveness of cement use in material systems, but does not necessarily consider all factors needed to determine which system is most sustainable. To make a fair comparison, it is necessary to consider the functions cement performs in each system. In this discussion, suggestions are given for how to assess the use of cement as a binding agent in stabilised earth construction. Consideration of structural requirements and durability, life cycle analysis and moisture buffering shows that the effectiveness of cement use depends on more than just embodied carbon and dry compressive strength.