leirebasert

Leirebasert is a Norwegian adjective meaning “clay‑based” or “based on clay.” The word combines leire (“clay”) with basert (“based”), and it is used across several disciplines to describe materials, processes, or products whose primary component is clay.

In geology and soil science, leirebasert refers to soils or sedimentary layers that contain a high proportion of fine‑grained clay particles. Such soils typically exhibit low permeability, high plasticity, and a tendency to swell when wet, properties that influence land use, agriculture, and construction. Clay‑based soils are common in river valleys and glacial deposits, and they are often classified using the Unified Soil Classification System or the World Reference Base for Soil Resources.

In construction and engineering, leirebasert materials include clay bricks, tiles, and earthen plasters. Their durability and thermal mass make them suitable for traditional building techniques, especially in regions with a long history of masonry. Modern applications may incorporate stabilizers such as lime or cement to improve strength and reduce shrinkage.

The term also appears in the ceramics industry, where leirebasert formulations describe clay bodies used for pottery, terracotta, or porcelain production. These formulations are adjusted by adding feldspar, silica, or other additives to achieve desired firing temperatures and mechanical properties.

Leirebasert products are valued for their natural origin, workability, and ecological footprint, although they require careful management of moisture and drying conditions to avoid cracking or deformation. Related concepts include leirmiks (clay mixture) and leirbasert kunst (clay‑based art).