Hemp x Earth Composite Blocks

Beyond floor plates and masonry, the Sediments project also investigates possible application of earth as a binder in composite insulation materials in combination with hemp. The developed blocks can be combined with a timber frame structure and offer a high potential for substituting conventional insulation materials.

In a preliminary study, composites produced with earth as a binder were compared to the commonly used mix of hemp and lime. The goal was to better understand the effect different binders, shiv sizes, and mixing ratios have on the performance of the building material and its global warming potential (GWP). In our workshop, we conducted experiments to test the compressive strength, thermal performance, fire resistance, and environmental impact.

The research showed the high compatibility of hemp with earth-based binders and produced replicable results for the development of nature-based insulation materials with a negative carbon footprint. The Bauhaus Earth team is currently collaborating with partners in Bhutan to apply the developed material recipes to the specific context of the Himalayas.