Detailed Experimental Review of Flexural Behavior of Cement Stabilized Soil Block Masonry

Abstract

Cement stabilized soil block (CSSB) is a modern earthen building material that is used in the construction of masonry structures. Most studies involving CSSB have focused on how its composition affects strength characteristics and material properties such as erosion. In contrast, very little is currently known about CSSB structural behavior. This study set forth to address the absence of data in this research area, focusing on flexural panel testing, including separate horizontal and vertical bending tests. It was found that CSSB follows traditional masonry reactions; also, through experimental observation, two separate failure modes were identified. A linear elastic analysis confirmed these failure modes and predicted the cracking moment in the specimens analyzed.