The Impact of Cement on Clay Material

Abstract

The main focus of this thesis is to find out how the admission of cement influences the hygric and mechanical properties as well as the water resistance of rammed earth. To increase the du- rability and strength of the earth samples, 0%, 2%, and 8% cement content was mixed with commonly used earth. Further, a mix of 0% and 2% cement content with 5% clay additionally added to the earth was produced. The reason is that the fine parts of a sample determine the strength and water resistance of the building. The hygroscopy is shown with the Nordtest which results in the moisture buffer value (MBV). The higher the cement content is the lower the MBV. To determine the durability and the water resistance, the contact sponge test and the capillary test are conducted. The test is an indication of low durability without stabilisation. With more clay added the durability is even lower. The impact of extra clay on the hygroscopy and durabil- ity is only visible without cement added. The added clay and cement interfere with each other. Cement added in clay material lowers the moisture buffer capacity and increases the durability.