Assessment of Polyvinyl Alcohol–Stabilized Compressed Earth Bricks on Performance and Durability of Structures

Earth bricks have long been favored in construction due to their environmental friendliness, affordability, accessibility, and thermal insulation properties. However, their low strength, durability, and water resistance limit their application. While fired bricks offer higher compressive strength and water resistance, they contribute significantly to CO₂ emissions during kiln firing. To mitigate this, researchers have explored stabilizing soil with various materials, with cement proving to be the most effective for both sandy and clayey soils. Studies suggest an optimal cement content of 8–9% for stabilization. However, due to the high environmental impact of cement production, reducing its usage in bricks is necessary. Lowering cement content, however, compromises strength and durability. To counter this, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was introduced to enhance brick properties while reducing cement content to 5%. This study investigated PVA incorporation at 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, and 7% alongside 5% cement in brick production. Among these, 5% PVA was found to be the most effective in improving strength and overall performance. The findings suggest that PVA can be a viable additive to minimize cement usage in earth bricks, offering a more sustainable construction alternative with improved mechanical properties.