Seismic Assessment of Rammed Earth Buildings: A Review

Rammed Earth (RE) construction is an ancient green building method that is becoming popular because it is cost effective and eco-friendly. There are different approaches on how one can optimally assess the seismic vulnerability of rammed earth structures. This review aims to understand the parameters that govern the behavior of rammed earth construction in terms of its seismic threat, including the materials, reinforcements and the evaluation procedures. Some of the important techniques such as shake table, FEM, and DEM, to name a few, are described in order to demonstrate the behavior of a RE building during a seismic event. The study establishes that density, elastic modulus and compressive strength are the key material properties which determine the level of seismic resistance required for any particular use. The review includes additional methods of reinforcement, mesh wrapping and textile reinforced mortar (TRM) and the concrete column integration, which are known to enhance the structural performance of Rammed Earth buildings during earthquakes. In order to increase further the seismic resistance of rammed earth-based structures, the review points out the lack of standardized test methods, research on aging effects, as well as search for materials with better performance.