Influence of Diatomite on the Physico-Mechanical Properties of Compressed Earth Blocks

Given the need for decent housing and taking into consideration the environment, as well as the search for sustainable materials, in recent years researchers have begun to focus on local biodegradable and ecological materials. It should be noted that the use of building materials evolves in step with population growth. However, their production must have a clear positive impact on the environment and offer viable solutions for reducing energy consumption during it is application. However, these materials rarely meet the mechanical requirements for using in housing construction. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential use of diatomite in the manufacture of compressed earth bricks. Diatomite is used at between 5% and 50% in two clay soils to determine its physico-mechanical properties. The study focused on shrinkage and mass loss, density, porosity, flexural strength, compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of the composites. The results show that the incorporation of diatomite improves the linear shrinkage of compressed earth blocks and increases their porosities. The dry density of compressed earth block decreased considerably with increasing percentages of diatomite, which also led to a reduction in mechanical strength. This reduction in mechanical strength is linked to the physicochemical characteristics of diatomite. According to a number of relevant standards in the literature, which can be used in building construction set minimum permissible strengths at 2 MPa in simple compression and 0.1 MPa in bending and indirect tension, composites made from two clay soils and diatomite.