Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs), also called earth blocks or CSEBs is one of the most popular natural building methods in part because bricks are well accepted and understood by builders, and because the walls go up fairly quickly. Thin walls take up minimal space in urban areas where lots are small and expensive. Interlocking bricks add stability. And, of course, the main material is clay which is dirt cheap.
compressed earth brick
Compressed Earth Block Wall Build – Dwell Earth
“Training for an old style of compressed earth block. Dwell Earth traveled to South Africa to train locals techniques in the production of compressed earth blocks using the Dynabloc LM 714 machine.
Unusual Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs)
Most compressed earth blocks (CEBs) are made in a mechanical press with a mixture of sandy soil, clayey soil, and a small amount of cement and water. CEBs typically require no plaster and are popular for walls, privacy walls, planters and much more. We used CEBs on our outdoor kitchen and raised garden beds. Recently I’ve discovered some rather unusual and very interesting CEBs made with unconventional materials. In addition to the compressed blocks shown here, you could use crushed glass, lava rock, brightly colored soil in sediment-like layers, sea shells, crushed limestone and other low cost and sustainable materials. The main idea is to utilize what is affordable and locally available.
