claycement

Claycement is a cementitious composite material used in earth construction that combines clay with Portland cement and water, sometimes with stabilizers or inert fillers. It is designed to improve the workability and durability of traditional clay soils while providing a hardened binding matrix after curing.

Composition and mechanism: The cement hydrates to form binding calcium silicate hydrates, while the clay provides plasticity, fills voids, and promotes cohesion between soil grains. The combined system yields a material with greater strength and dimensional stability than plain clay, and with improved resistance to erosion and moisture movement when properly cured.

Mixing and fabrication: Dry components are blended, water is added to reach a workable consistency, and the material is formed into blocks, pressed, rammed, or applied as plaster or mortar. The cement–clay ratio and the presence of stabilizers influence strength, permeability, and durability. Proper curing and protection from excessive moisture are important for performance.

Applications and performance: Claycement is used in stabilized earth blocks (CEBs), rammed earth walls, and plaster or mortar for repairs or new construction. It can increase compressive strength and reduce shrinkage compared with un-stabilized clay soils, while retaining some of clay's moisture-regulating properties.

Environmental and durability considerations: The cement portion increases embodied energy and carbon emissions, though stabilization can reduce material use and extend life when local materials are employed. Durability depends on clay mineralogy, climate, and moisture exposure; high-swelling clays or poor drainage can cause cracking if not managed.

See also

- Stabilized earth

- Rammed earth

- Compressed earth block