Experimental and Numerical Investigation on Mechanical Response of Reinforced Earth-Based Masonry System

Earth is a vernacular material with construction techniques varying based on local earth mixes, locally available soil. Therefore, there is no common standardization on earthen materials and construction which leads to a range of approaches. This study examines compressed earth block (CEB) masonry, stabilized with 8% cement. To address its low tensile and shear capacity, several reinforcement techniques are investigated: a concrete frame cast within the blocks, and a mixed system using Basalt Fiber Polymers (BFRP) mesh to reinforce the bed mortar joint. This improves tensile strength while maintaining frame behavior by bonding BFRP mesh with vertical reinforcement. Given the heterogeneity of both materials and masonry itself, experimental campaigns were conducted on material constituent level and on masonry system level, to define basic mechanical properties of cement-stabilized CEB, earth-based mortar and masonry system. Compression tests were performed on masonry panels to evaluate the different mechanical response of the construction system. To assess the mechanical behavior, a homogenized finite element (FE) model was calibrated based on experimental data and later used to investigate the systems response to vertical actions.