Artisanal lime as a low-carbon stabilizer for enhanced stabilized earth blocks in sustainable earthen structure rehabilitation

This study investigates artisanal lime as a low-carbon stabilizer for stabilized earth blocks (SEBs) to optimize the sustainable rehabilitation of earthen structures while reducing cement use. Conducted in Mougheul, Bechar region, Algeria, the study adopts a circular economy approach by valorizing local soil and traditionally produced lime, minimizing cement’s environmental impact. A mixed stabilization method (cement/artisanal lime) was tested at replacement rates of 0%, 12.5%, 25%, 50%, and 100%. Physico-mechanical properties, including density, water absorption, porosity, and compressive/flexural strengths, were evaluated at 28 and 90 days per international standards. At 12.5% replacement, SEBs achieve a compressive strength of 1.94 MPa at 28 days, a water absorption reduction of 1.96%, and a porosity decrease of 2.83% at 90 days, enhancing the stability of the earthen material and complying with international standards. Compared to industrial lime, artisanal lime offers comparable performance with reduced environmental impact. These findings support heritage preservation and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through low-emission construction. Future research should explore long-term material stability and bio-based stabilizers.