What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to improve rammed earth construction using modular blocks with bio-stabilization techniques to enhance sustainability and structural integrity.

February 8, 2026Open Access

Bio-stabilized modular rammed earth blocks for sustainable and aesthetic construction

Key Points

The research aims to improve rammed earth construction using modular blocks with bio-stabilization techniques to enhance sustainability and structural integrity.
Utilized NURBS-based parametric design for creating customized modular blocks.
Assessed bio-stabilization using animal glue and xanthan gum.
Conducted life cycle assessments based on ISO 14040 standards.
Prototyped blocks using CNC-milled formwork and tested for compressive strength.
Modular blocks showed improved structural stability with staggered assembly.
Animal glue bio-stabilization achieved the highest compressive strength at 6.86 MPa.
Xanthan gum and unstabilized variants displayed lower strengths and higher environmental impacts.

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to address critical limitations in rammed earth (RE) construction through a novel modular block system integrating computational design, modular construction and bio-stabilization techniques. The research quantifies environmental benefits and structural performance, establishing empirical foundations for commercial implementation of prefabricated earthen construction technologies. Design/methodology/approach The methodology used non-uniform rational B-splines (NURBS)-based parametric design for customized free-form blocks with five distinct types facilitating staggered assembly. Bio-stabilization was evaluated using animal glue and xanthan gum versus unstabilized variants. Life cycle assessment was conducted following ISO 14040 protocols. Full-scale prototyping validated manufacturing through CNC-milled formwork, while experimental validation included 28-day compressive strength testing and environmental impact quantification. Findings Full-scale prototyping confirmed technical feasibility of the modular free-form RE block system, achieving consistent production through precision CNC-milled formwork. Staggered assembly methodology enhanced structural stability via embedded reinforcement channels. Animal glue bio-stabilization demonstrated superior performance metrics (6.86 MPa strength, 38.61 kg CO2-eq/m³ emissions) compared to xanthan gum (5.58 MPa, 60.12 kg CO2-eq/m³) and unstabilized variants (1.74 MPa, 12.32 kg CO2-eq/m³). Originality/value This research pioneers computational design integration with traditional RE construction, establishing novel methodological frameworks for sustainable building. The synthesis of NURBS parametric geometry, prefabrication protocols and bio-stabilization represents significant advancement in earthen architecture, providing construction professionals with validated methodologies for achieving architectural sophistication while maintaining environmental sustainability.

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