Study of the Influence of Corn Stalks Fibers on the Characteristics of Compressed Earth Bricks

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to determine the optimal dosage of corn stalks fibers to obtain good resistance of compressed earth bricks. After determining the properties of the fibers and the clay soil, a volume variation of the fibers is carried out in relation to the mass of the mixture for making bricks of dimensions 10.5x22x6.5 cm3 which are stored in a sheltered place. On these bricks, the densities and compressive strength are determined at 28 days of age. Both poorly graded and well graded fibers are used in this study. From this study it appears that the fibers are light and that the earth is not very plastic, containing no humus. The density of the bricks decreases and the resistance increases with the increase in the fiber content. Resistance is better with well graded fibers. Keywords: corn stalks, compressive strength, clay soil, fibers.