L'application de la terre crue comme mortier dans les revêtements muraux

Abstract

This thesis explores the use of earth as a construction material, focusing on raw earth mortars, which are often underestimated in contemporary practices. Through a comprehensive bibliographic study, we identified various methods for utilizing earth and specifically chose to work with wall-rendering mortar. We employed two main materials: a moderately plastic loamy clay and a very clean fine sand. Three mortar formulations were developed: M-1 (50% Clay + 50% Sand), M-2 (33.33% Clay + 66.67% Sand), and M-3 (25% Clay + 75% Sand). The water content was determined visually, inspired by traditional practices, and a relationship between nthis content and the liquid limits was established. Fresh-state tests revealed that the M-2 mix offered the best performance in terms of linear expansion and mass loss. In the hardened state, M-1 demonstrated superior thermal conductivity, while M-2 and M-3 exhibited resistance to tension and compression, respectively. However, we also observed the vulnerability of earth mortars to water, highlighting the need for stabilization to enhance their durability. In conclusion, this work recommends the use of the M-2 mix for its optimal characteristics, while suggesting future research avenues to strengthen the moisture resistance of earth mortars. This thesis thus contributes to the valorization of earth materials in the field of sustainable construction.