Abstract

VINUALES, Graciela María. Technology and construction with earth. Apuntes [online]. 2007, vol.20, n.2, pp.220-231. ISSN 1657-9763.

The ways of using earth to build have points of contact with other systems and techniques such as bricks, stone and reinforced concrete. However, as the uses of natural materials are scarcely known, we intend to put forward some explanations in this article. Earth has been present in Architecture since the first human building manifestations and occurs in almost any region of warm or temperate climate and is less present in cold weather places. The materials available and the form of expression of different cultures gave raise to a variety of building techniques that use only earth or combine it with other animal, vegetal or mineral materials. Taking all these varieties, the majority of which is still in use, it is possible to make a general classification that allows us to explore its characteristics, advantages and inconveniences. For such purpose, we have divided these kinds of construction into three groups: rammed earth, wattle and daub and brickwork. Therefore, we will analyze these systems according to the three mentioned groups, adding some other applications of earth either as the main component or as a complement of other materials. We will look over the main advantages and inconveniences of earth architecture in each of the systems. At the end we include a basic bibliography to enhance further knowledge of the theme.

Keywords : Earth; rammed earth; adobe; mudbrick; quincha; wattle and daub.

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