With climate change leading to more frequent and devastating wildfires in the western U.S., an ancient technology may soon see new life.
Research by Michele Barbato, director of CITRIS Climate and professor of structural engineering at UC Davis, and his team shows that compressed earth blocks, historically used to build earthen structures, could prove to be a safer and more energy-efficient material for homes in fire-prone regions, with a lower carbon footprint compared to wood-frame buildings.
Barbato and his lab conducted a series of tests on earth blocks under extreme heat conditions, demonstrating their ability to resist fire and even become stronger with exposure to flames. Barbato is further working with a team to set building standards for earth structures that will help reduce their cost below those of wooden homes.
Once people are familiarized with the material, Barbato says it will be “relatively easy to convince the public this is a great solution.”