Enhancing the durability of earth construction in flood-prone regions through clay stabilization

For centuries, civilizations worldwide have used the earth as a construction material. However, water poses a significant threat to earthen buildings due to their low strength and susceptibility. This study aims to develop an affordable and effective construction material. To achieve this, cement, lime, and wheat straw were used as stabilizers to protect earthen structures from rain and floods. Optimal combinations of cement and lime-stabilized clay soil, tested for compressive strength and water absorption, were then enhanced with straw. The greatest improvement in compressive strength was observed with cement 2.5% and straw 0.5% (4.73 MPa) and lime 4% and straw 1% (5.09 MPa). The highest flexural strength was achieved with lime 4% and straw 1% (28.57%) and cement 2.5% and straw 0.5% (19.69%). The pozzolanic reaction between cement, lime, and straw significantly enhanced bonding strength. Submersion and water absorption tests showed that lime 4% and straw 1%, as well as cement 2.5% and straw 0.5%, performed excellently in rainy and flood-prone areas, proving to be both effective and economical. This research highlights significant improvements in compressive and flexural strength through new material synergies and provides a sustainable and cost-effective solution for construction in challenging environmental conditions.